Thousands of Mooiplaas residents get food hampers
“Residents gathered in the area since 06:00 for food hampers and at times the queue was about 3km long.”
The residents of the Mooiplaas informal settlement outside Centurion received 8 000 food hampers as part of a local initiative to help feed residents during the lockdown period.
The donations, donated by locals as well as businesses, were handed out to residents on Wednesday morning.
The distribution process was described as going “smoothly” by social activist Yusuf Abramjee.
“The Gauteng social development department, Tshwane metro and law enforcement approved the distribution in line with a new directive saying distribution should be coordinated and approved,” Abramjee said.
“Scores of police, SANDF members and TMPD officers were in attendance since early Wednesday morning.
“Residents gathered in the area since 06:00 for food hampers and at times the queue was about 3km long.”
Abramjee said social distancing was practiced at all times.
“We wish to thank everyone involved and the community for the joint effort.
“The need for food is massive. Over 80% of this community are foreign nationals and they have not received any assistance from government.
“We are happy we made a small difference.”
Local business leader Smiley Essa said he was happy that the 8 000 food hampers will be feeding tens of thousands of people.
“We are looking at ways of expanding the aid over the coming days to neighboring areas.”
Asgar Akoob of the United Muslim Forum said a lot of work still needed to be done.
Akoob thanked the various donors and volunteers.
“The lockdown is far from over and levels of hunger are growing by the day. Let’s continue to make a difference wherever we can.”
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