Driven by poverty, unemployment, and rising food prices, food insecurity affects households across our city and is a growing issue faced by many families in Ward 86.

Councillor for this ward, Chantelle Fourie-Shawe, said families quietly struggle month to month, ‘especially with rising living costs and irregular municipal services that affect small incomes’. She highlighted that many families suffer in silence, being too proud to ask for help from neighbours or formal networks.

Read more: Ward 86 councillor Chantelle Fourie-Shawe hopes municipal pool will reopen before the swimming season ends

Given these circumstances, she thinks it is important that neighbours get to know each other well so they can be of assistance to each other. “That’s where real resilience starts. When neighbours know each other, they notice who’s struggling and can step in early, whether with a cooked meal, a lift, or just kindness.” As it builds trust and keeps the community human.

Also read: Taps run dry in Ward 86

The councillor highlighted the following organisations that can assist families faced with the burden of food insecurity:

• Johannesburg Food Bank (Buyisa Ubuntu) – provides food parcels and support for vulnerable households.
• FoodForward SA – connects donors and families to local food-relief partners; you can search for a nearby beneficiary organisation.
• Meals on Wheels Johannesburg – delivers food parcels to elderly and vulnerable households across Gauteng.

Although there are many non-profit organisations whose aims are to help families faced with such issues, the councillor highlighted these particular ones, which are filling the gaps where the government system falls short.

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