Mhlongo patron of needy families: 35 Families helped before winter arrives
With winter approaching, a local vegetable farmer is collecting clothes and blankets to help families in need.
David Byrne, a friend of farmer Bennedicter Mhlongo, posted on the Hoedspruit Facebook page asking for donations of items that are no longer used. “The weather is cooling down and people are hungry,” he stated. He said Mhlongo, a great friend of his, initiated a drive to help the less fortunate. “We are appealing for both funds and warm blankets or clothing.
The funds collected thus far will be used to provide veggie packs for at least twenty families and the blankets and clothing will be distributed to as many families as possible,” said Byrne. He said that the veggie packs are R100 each, provided at cost by Mhlongo through his farm and his contacts in the local community. “Blankets and clothing can be dropped off at The Charity Shop in Hoedspruit or Mhlongo’s farm, Benica, in Arthur’s Seat.
He asked that items dropped at The Charity Shop, be clearly labelled with “Bennedicter Drive”. “Please leave only clean, useable items,” he added. He said that initially funding for 15 families for veggie packs was secured but on Tuesday they were able to help 35 families. On Facebook, Mhlongo thanked residents in a post showing bags of clothing. “This makes a significant impact on the needy families.”
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“Food parcels from SuperSPAR Acornhoek, sanitary towels and school bags from Roots, and vegetable parcels from Benica Fruits and Veggies sponsored by Hoedspruit vendors, formed part of these parcels. “Distribution took place on April 30 at Benica Farm where 35 destitute families walked home smiling and will stay warm this winter,” he said.
“I want to thank David Byrne, I have no words to thank this friend of mine, let’s continue touching many lives and making a change where we can in the community.” Mhlongo also thanked Boitumelo Maureen Moripa, an unemployed social worker, for reaching out to him and identifying families who are in dire need of social support. “Your love for the community is beyond belief, keep doing good,” he added. More donations are still needed and anyone who wants to help can direct message (DM) Byrne on his Facebook account at David Byrne.
