The Mbatha family in Mhubeni have fallen upon hard times. The family of four headed by the elderly MaDubazane struggles to make ends meet and often have to go hungry. MaDubazane’s three sons are unemployed and her one daughter is studying towards a teaching degree in Johannesburg. Her husband deserted the family years ago and is allegedly residing in Johannesburg.

In between paying for her daughter’s studies and tending to their home, MaDubazane is sometimes left with nothing to see her and the family through the month. Their plight was brought to the attention of the Estcourt and District Taxi Association by one of the committee members while the association was discussing taxi fare increases.

The committee member told other members that the family was in dire straits and she had tried to intervene by getting Imbabazane Municipality involved but there was no favourable response. The taxi association’s members were moved by the Mbatha family’s story and made a unanimous decision to assist the family.

The association’s Vivian Cele says that since the Estcourt and District Taxi Association belonged to the community, it was only fitting that they lend a helping hand. On Tuesday morning committee members including Vice Chairperson Mrs B Dlamini, Public Relations Officer Mr JW Malinga, Secretary Mr DB Mabaso and additional member Mr V Cele purchased groceries, which they delivered to the family at their home. Mr Cele’s says that the family’s appreciation was overwhelming and he hopes that the association can further assist.