Local foundation brings smiles to children in Glen Marais

The Serve to Grow Foundation, a dedicated NPO, recently hosted a heartwarming event at Chatoga Spur in Glen Marais, bringing joy to 36 deserving children.

The initiative formed part of the foundation’s ongoing mission of support and upliftment to vulnerable individuals across Gauteng.

Fundraising coordinator Justine Koch explained the foundation focuses on creating self-sustainability within its projects by offering skills development and job creation opportunities.

“The vision is to develop our projects to a point where they can operate independently while knowing we are still here to support them however we can,” said Koch.

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The Serve to Grow Foundation (TSTGF) has been active in community outreach for over 15 years, assisting various groups, including day care centres, old age homes and rehabilitation centres.

“We aim to provide training and skill development to help people gain employment. We already implemented a few such projects and plan to expand further,” Koch added.

Currently, the foundation’s primary goal is to feed over 2 000 people in need across Gauteng.

Director Mellisa Huber emphasised their inclusive approach, saying they help anyone without discrimination.

“We believe by showing compassion, we inspire hope. If people know some organisations care, they will have the courage to reach out and seek help, and even help others,” said Huber.

She explained their upcoming outreach project would provide hot biryani, juice, and food parcels to people in old age homes, rehab centres, early childhood development centres, and more.

The organisation is calling on the public to assist with donations.

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As a registered NPO, Serve to Grow can issue tax certificates for contributions.

“No donation is too small,” Huber added.

According to Koch, the foundation made a remarkable impact this year by donating nearly one million baby nappies.

Gavin Huber, the foundation’s financial consultant, shared how the organisation was born out of a long-standing passion for helping others.

“My partner and I started this officially because it was something we always have done.

“We have been helping people for years, and believe everyone deserves support,” he said.

“I have known Melissa since she was a child; we have been together for 36 years. Even as children, helping others was something we did naturally, through our families and friends.”

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Shortly before Easter, the Serve to Grow Foundation was preparing for its most significant initiative.

On April 19, the organisation planned to serve over 2 000 people across the East Rand, West Rand, and Kempton Park in a large-scale Easter outreach project.

Those who wish to get involved or support the foundation’s efforts can contact Koch on 074 659 6191.