Michelle is spreading hope through Ekurhuleni
A jar of hope consists of rice, soup mix, lentils, a stock cube, and instant soup powder.
Michelle Rossouw (44) and her team of volunteers are busy spreading hope through Ekurhuleni with jars of hope.
She came across an advert during lockdown where jars are filled with non-perishable ingredients which can feed up to four people and without hesitation, she decided that this is going to be her way of giving back to others and helping them, especially in times like these.
Passion for less-fortunate
“I just have this desire to give. Even as a small child I would give my jersey to someone who needed it, according to my mother. This is just part of who I am,” said Michelle.
She started this project during lockdown and so far they have distributed over 200 jars. A jar of hope consists of rice, soup mix, lentils, a stock cube and instant soup powder.
One of these jars can feed up to four people and can also provide multiple meals to one person.
“It is really simple, all you have to do is add hot water and stir the mixture continuously,” said Michelle.
According to her, it is not only healthy but also very tasty.
“By handing out these jars I do not only create hope for others but also for myself. Tonight I can go to bed and know that some of the less-fortunate people will not go to sleep hungry.”
A big thank you
Michelle would like to thank Ekurhuleni residents for opening their hearts towards her project and less fortunate people.
“Thank you to my husband, Jacques, and my neighbour, Yvonne. Also thank you to Debbie du Toit and Gerhard van der Schyff for their support.”
She also thanks Stephen le Roux from Fourth Dimension for sharing her project on various social media platforms and also for collecting the donations to bring it to her for distribution.
“Last but not least, thank you to my very supportive family for asking for donations and collecting it,” said Michelle.
How you can help
Residents can help by donating ingredients or even empty glass jars.
“We welcome any type of donation, whatever one can give we will be thankful,” she said.
People who would like to donate can contact Stephen on 063 354 4974, who will then make arrangements for collection.
Those who would like to make a financial donation can contact Michelle on 083 792 3229.
