The uncertainty and challenges during the lockdown did not hinder Step Foundation Care Centre in its mission to provide decent meals to those less fortunate. It has been feeding destitute people for more than five years.

The administrative coordinator and life coach at the centre, Hester van Zijl, said due to thousands of people losing their jobs almost every day as a result of the Covid-19 coronavirus, they have seen the numbers of the people they feed increase drastically.

She said by day 74 of lockdown, they had already handed out about 7 538 meals.

“The number is also increasing because some businesses cannot open. We started with 65 meals a day and now we have 160 meals per day. These are only people that are collecting food for their families. In total there are 134 households. The numbers kept increasing and at the moment the centre is feeding about 345 people of which 114 are children.

ALSO WATCH: Massive 3,6 metres python removed from the premises of Two Rivers Mine

Some of the people who come here used to beg for money. They cannot do it anymore due to lockdown. Some have piece jobs which are also not yet allowed under the current level. Even when the numbers kept increasing we told ourselves that we will continue feeding whoever the Lord brings to our feet,” she said.
Van Zijl said they faced several challenges when they tried to
collect food.

“We only get donations from private sectors or community members. There are some days when there is no food on the shelf. We take it day to day.”
She added that they will always do their best to feed whoever the Lord puts in their path. The centre is still in need of non-perishable food.

ALSO READ: Two-year-old girl is allegedly gang-raped, suspects walk free

“Canned goods with pop-up lids are better than canned goods that require a can opener. Avoid foods packaged in glass. Please do not donate foods that are past the expiration date,” she said.

The centre has placed its drop-off trolleys in which the community may place their donations at Pick n Pay and Longtom SPAR.
Those who would like to be part of this initiative can contact Van Zijl on 083-945-2838.