Jacob’s Well uplifts community
Jacob's Well is an organisation that is ever growing and has big vision and desire to reach out to the community around them. As part of their Mandela Day drive, the donated 508 pairs of shoes to various beneficiaries. they also have a vegetable tunnel feeding various families and basic sewing classes to name but a few of their projects.
ALBERTON- Three years ago, Revival City, in Brackenhurst, decided to do something about the parishioners between jobs and in dire need.
A couple of woman in the church became involved and the ministry flourished.
They started Jacob’s Well, a multi-disciplinary support system aiming to uplift the community.
People in need of jobs are counselled and prepared for job interviews and then linked with placement agencies. “A person has to be ready to apply for work after they have been retrenched and we help them by building up their confidence,” says Venishia van Greenen, the woman heading up Jacob’s Well.
In 2014 they had a vision about starting a vegetable garden and contacted AMCAP, in Durban, who donated two vegetable tunnels at that stage, and a third one is soon to be added.
After much preparation, volunteers planted the first seeds.
The Department of Agriculture has taken a big interest in this project, visits regularly and has donated wheelbarrows, spades and other tools.
On average, 70 families have benefited from the harvest.
Jacob’s Well is also starting with sewing classes soon and invites all women who need basic skills to join them at a minimal fee. The funds will be used to buy material and cotton.
“We want to uplift the women and teach them a skill,” says June Lottering, who will be offering the classes.
As part of its Mandela Day drive, Jacobs Well Alberton distributed 508 pairs of shoes that were donated by Rupert and Vanessa Goosen, to various beneficiaries.
These include Rosettenville Baby House, Faith Centre Tshwane, Grace Church Soweto, Slovo Park Informal settlement and Boneha Primary School, to name a few.
“We have a big vision to help and impact on our community and we know it is just going to grow,” says Estelle Bickerton, the secretary of Jacob’s Well.
Anyone interested in becoming involved with this positive support system should contact Bickerton on 011-867 3322 (office hours) or 0823437281, or van Greenen on 082 472 6208.
