As humans with a sense of self-worth and pride, it’s a knock to the ego knowing that they are dependent on the support and donations of the Middelburg community for their next meal.

Despite their best efforts to nurture vegetable patches, as well as earn their own income, over 35 residents have only two days of food rations left to share amongst themselves, and they need help.

The Koppie Street Housing Project is no lay-by for burdens of the state. It is a non-profit organisation that aids families who are crippled by poverty with low-cost housing.

Residents go through a strict application process that includes background checks on individuals to eliminate applicants with a record of criminal activity, violence or drug and alcohol abuse, ensuring a holistic community within the project.

All residents earn an income of sorts, but their income is not always enough to provide a safe haven for them and their families.

The manager at the Koppie Street Housing Project, Ms Olga Smith, explained that the severe economical impact of lockdown has resulted in an increase of residents at their organisation.

Despite overwhelming support from the community during lockdown, the Koppie Street Housing Project is in need of assistance with donations of food, as well as implements and materials for their self-sustainability projects.

Donations of the following materials are needed:

• Topsoil, fertiliser and organic fertiliser is needed to maintain a healthy PH balance for their vegetable patches.
• Donations of appropriate vegetable seeds or seedlings.
• Meat and ready-to-eat veggies.
• Tools and implements for handcrafts, including woodwork and textile crafts.
• Financial donations.

Anyone who wishes to assist the Koppie Street Project with the above-mentioned donations is welcome to contact Olga Smith on 076 522 2844.