For more than two decades, Derek Olds (84) has travelled dusty roads to deliver food to those in need. Now, thanks to a community effort, he has a reliable new vehicle to keep going.

The North Coast Courier Orphan Fund partnered with The Natal Nomads Golf Club to raise R150 000 towards a new bakkie for the Ballito resident’s NGO, Practising Christian Outreach Trust (PCOT), which has been a monthly beneficiary of the Orphan Fund for more than 20 years.

The Nomads raised R300 000 through the Andrew Mentis Nomads Foundation, with R150 000 allocated to PCOT. McChloe Auto Traders discounted R10 000 on the Toyota Hilux, while Machine Worx provided a complimentary deep clean and Zap Signs offered reduced branding costs.

For 21 years, Olds has collected surplus food from Lifestyle SUPERSPAR and Pick n Pay Ballito, delivering it to vulnerable families in rural Tongaat and Ndwedwe. His work often takes him along dirt roads and into remote rural areas, where his ageing bakkie had become unreliable and unsafe.

Driven by his deep care for the people he serves, Olds knows that if he does not arrive, families go hungry. The food he delivers is a lifeline for many rural households, often headed by grandmothers caring for multiple grandchildren and orphaned children.

Nomads vice-captain Darrell de Jager said supporting the initiative aligned with the club’s commitment to community upliftment.

“It is through these fundraising efforts, in partnership with the Orphan Fund, that we are honoured to purchase a vehicle for Derek. He does incredible work and we hope this helps him continue,” he said.

Receiving the keys, Olds said the vehicle would significantly expand his reach.

“This will help me safely access the most remote rural areas and continue our work. We go where nobody else will go to feed and clothe those in need,” he said.

Orphan Fund fundraising co-ordinator Charmaine Premlal said the donation represents more than transport.

“This bakkie will enable Derek to continue assisting people facing the real challenges created by extreme poverty. Thank you to our sponsors, your belief in our mission inspires us to continue making a meaningful difference,” she said.