Portuguese Forum of South Africa announce Social Solidarity Food Drive Event on 6 September 2020
While millions of South Africans were living in poverty before the Covid-19 lockdown, it is estimated that as many as 34% of people in South Africa have gone to bed hungry during the lockdown.
Pause for a moment: It’s an icy winter, and 34% of our nation has gone to bed hungry.
In the spirit of Ubuntu and humanity towards others, the Portuguese Forum of South Africa today announced the Social Solidarity Food Drive which will take place on Sunday, 6 September 2020.
The Forum, in conjunction with the Gauteng Provincial Department and supported by both South African and International Cultural Community Groups and Organisations, has secured a safe venue where communities and established charity groups can set up a marquee to receive donations.
In addition, procession trucks loaded with pallets of donated food from local farmers and companies will attend the Social Solidarity Food Drive before delivering their donated items to the nominated food banks.
Arriving and remaining in their motor vehicles and/or motorbikes, the general public will take part in a drive through, dropping off donations at the marquee of the charity or community group of their choice, knowing that every donation counts, no matter how small – someone will value the meal and the kindness.
The aim of the Social Solidarity Food Drive is to bring as many compassionate resources from the cultural community groups, corporate brands, farmers, charity groups and the public together in one place, in a show of force for good.
Manny Ferreirinha, National Chairman of the Portuguese Forum, says: “The COVID-19 pandemic has been disastrous for the majority of South Africans and we realise the enormous need to help out those affected at this time.
“We believe that food banks and community support are an integral and viable solution to defeat hunger and change lives, particularly at a time when unemployment is high, the nights are bitterly cold and there are children who don’t understand the causes of hunger, but know what it feels like.”
The drive-through is designed to help those in need, Ferreirinha says, “but also to highlight the many, often unrewarded South Africans who do amazing work to help. They are what makes South Africa great.
“This drive speaks to the heart of what it means to be a community, and the Portuguese Forum of South Africa want as many people as possible to participate and show heart for those in need.”
Save the date now and join in this moving tribute to community and the importance of the outstretched hand at the corner of Atlas Road and Silver Wings Boulevard, Parkhaven, Kempton Park on Sunday 6 September 2020 at 09h00.
