Engel Foundation’s first food drive brings relief to Sophiatown
On March 23, the Engel Foundation launched its first food drive, providing hot meals to families in Sophiatown and paving the way for lasting change. Read how their mission is creating a ripple effect of kindness.
On March 23, the Engel Foundation hosted its inaugural community food drive, marking the beginning of a heartfelt mission to address food insecurity in the Sophiatown area. The event brought together volunteers and community members with a shared goal: Ensuring no one in the community goes hungry.
The food drive, which provided hot meals to families in need, is the first of what the foundation hopes will become a monthly initiative. More than just a meal, the event aimed to foster a spirit of giving, and create a platform for long-term community support.
Read more: Northcliff Rotary donates over 1 000 dignity packs to vulnerable mothers
Executive director Yolin Williams expressed the significance of the initiative and its deeper meaning. “This date holds a special place in our hearts,” said Williams. “March 23 would have been my late father-in-law’s birthday, and launching our first food drive on this day is a tribute to his legacy of generosity and kindness. His spirit continues to guide and inspire our work.”
While their goal was to feed 150 people, Williams and her team surpassed that goal and managed to feed 330 people on the day.
The foundation was established in 2025 with a mission to combat food insecurity and uplift disadvantaged communities. Beyond providing immediate relief through meals, the foundation aims to create sustainable change by equipping individuals with skills and support networks to build a better future.
In addition to the food drive, the foundation runs various community upliftment projects. These include entrepreneurship and skills development programmes, youth empowerment initiatives, and outreach efforts addressing homelessness, education, and mental health.
Also read: A food drive for the hospitality industry
Williams emphasised that the foundation’s vision extends far beyond providing food. “Our initiatives are about long-term empowerment. We believe that by addressing the root causes of poverty – like unemployment and lack of skills development – we can help individuals become self-sufficient and contribute positively to society. Stronger individuals lead to stronger families, and ultimately, a stronger community.”
The name ‘Engel’ carries deep personal and symbolic meaning for the foundation. In Afrikaans, ‘Engel’ means ‘Angel’, representing the foundation’s mission to bring hope and kindness to those in need. The name also honours Williams’ late father-in-law, who passed away during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The foundation’s logo features a baobab tree with a rising sun, a symbol of strength, resilience, and nourishment. “The baobab is often called the ‘Tree of Life’,” explained Williams. “It represents the lasting impact we hope to create – providing, not just immediate relief, but sustainable growth and empowerment. The rising sun behind the tree signifies new beginnings and the promise of a brighter future.”
Looking ahead, they plan to expand the food drive to surrounding areas while continuing the broader mission of community upliftment.
Williams highlighted the importance of community involvement in sustaining these efforts. “We want people to know that the Engel Foundation is more than just an organisation; it’s a movement of compassion and action. Everyone has a role to play, whether through volunteering, donating, or simply spreading the word. Together, we can create meaningful change.”
Follow us on our Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok pages. Join our WhatsApp group for any story ideas you may have.
Related article: Linden community unites to jar food and care for children
