Help Elsburg organisation feed the needy
“Our garage has been converted into storage, but space is limited. We need help renovating it to match our operations,”
Rata Social Services-Elsburg has urged the community to step forward and assist them with funding for the establishment of their new soup kitchen.
Since 1948 the organisation has been changing lives, by growing the potential of all vulnerable children, families and communities.
As a recognised welfare organisation (NPC), they dedicate themselves to improving the quality of life for all people by protecting children from all forms of abuse, implementing activities to improve family bonds, and uplifting communities through outreach programmes.
ALSO READ: Funding brings relief to Gauteng NPOs
According to their website, 54,000 persons profited from their services during the last year.
Programme manager Elmarie Kennedy stated, “We believe in the potential of every individual to become the best that they can be with what they have.”
The organisation was originally founded under the Nederduits Reformed Church, also known as the Nederduitsch Hervormde Church.
The Elsburg branch was established in 1977, and the organisation has gradually expanded to serve all localities.
They help change lives by:
• Protecting children from abuse.
• Foster care and adoption provide opportunities for new starts.
• Improving the quality of life for all people.
• Implementation of programs to build family relationships.
• Empowering communities through poverty alleviation, life skills development, literacy initiatives, and awareness campaigns.
“To improve the quality of life for all people, we are preparing to open a soup kitchen with the goal of helping the underprivileged.
ALSO READ: Gauteng Social Development approves funding for NPOs
“Our garage has been converted into storage, but space is limited. We need help renovating it to match our operations,” said Kennedy.
“We also need help with supply donations. The Dignity Soup Kitchen will be launched this winter. In addition to feeding people, we aim to do so with decency and respect for them.
“The Elsburg office employs three social workers and two auxiliary personnel. Our personnel is trained to meet the demands of our communities. As the kitchen opens, more volunteers will be needed to assist.
“Our recruitment campaigns are active. We are searching for people who have a heart for children and are willing and knowledgeable about dealing with traumatised children.
“We can teach volunteers to become foster parents, and the registration fee is R40,” said Kennedy.
“Our office seeks long-term co-operation that align with our needs. We require office and stationery equipment such as paper, a new vehicle for intervention programmes, baby products, projector, laminator, paper donations, and fuel for our generators.
“When it comes to children care and intervention we are guided by the Children Protection Act.
“Where there is an allegation of rape we must remove the child and open a case for the SAPS to investigate,” said Kennedy.
ALSO READ: Gauteng Social Development provides update on NPO payments
“The external family is given top priority in caring for the child to avoid the cycle of trauma.
“Placing children in homes with limited resources helps them to grow up and exit the system; only a few survive and thrive in these homes. It’s like having a bleeding person bleed on others. Our system is overcrowded,” said Kennedy.
