Meals on Wheels reaches out to the less fortunate

Meals on Wheels is a non-profit organisation (NPO) that makes and delivers food to the less fortunate in Springs and is currently operating from Sewende Dag Adventiste Kerk in Petersfield.

The leader of the NPO, Daleen Enslin, says it’s not just about the meal but also about the love and calling they have received to help those in need.

Meal on Wheels was established 50 years ago in Springs although it originated from the American Seventh Adventist Churches.

The main focus of Meals on Wheels is to provide food to those who are in need in the Springs community and surrounding areas.

“It’s so important that we take care of those who can’t look after themselves, from the elders to the people in the streets,” says Enslin.

Every day, each person receives a meal and a “secret pudding”.

“We charge R12 for those who can afford our meals which are used as a contribution towards our savings in order to be able to purchase enough fresh food and vegetables every day.”

Enslin and other volunteers commit themselves from Monday to Saturday to cook hearty meals that everyone can enjoy.

“We have a saying that says the food must be a symphony, where it talks and serenades you and with that we always make sure we always produce the best.”

Like any other NPO, Meals on Wheels encounters problems but staying together as a team always works out for the better.

“We humble ourselves before the Lord to ask for the strength for each obstacle we face.”

Currently, Meals on Wheels feeds approximately 7 000 people a month although they are hoping to go beyond that to make sure that every person on the street and those who cannot afford food are well fed.

Dennis Geldenhys, Meals on Wheels driver say he is overwhelmed by how the NPO has grown over the years.

“What surprises me is the demand and the number of people who are depending on us for food. It’s so rewarding to know that we give them hope,” says Geldenhys.

As the year-end approaches, Enslin says she is planning to bring the people to the church hall and make one big royal party that they won’t forget.

“We want to treat them as royals because it’s not every day that they experience royalty around them.”

Meals on Wheels is also seeking any volunteers residing in and around Springs. Anyone interested may contact Enslin on 011 811 3666.