Northmead mother and son Margie and Trevor Terblanche have spent years of their lives giving to those in need, and this month they are giving out bedding.
“This all started by my mother and father, Andrew,” said Trevor.
“While I was in boarding school, my parents, with the help of seven families, used to bring Christmas presents to over 300 children who had nothing.
“That continued for many years. I adapted to doing the same and did something to give back to the community even if it was to give my own presents to people that needed what I had.”
Margie said this initiative to give back to others started in 1984.
While Trevor learnt about supporting the less fortunate from his parents, not only him, but his family, volunteers and loved ones now also get involved to assist where they can.
“The family all pulls together at the best of times. Hein comes off the street and is a recovering addict that is now joined our family as Trevor’s right hand man, Elzereen and CJ are always there to help, Nicky and Chris Groenewald assist where they can,” Margie explained.
Trevor is also a trader at the Happy Souls Market and at times, some of those members assist him in his journey of bringing smiles to the young and old.
“There is Margie, Hein and myself involved in buying food, packing and giving it to the people on the street, where we drive around giving a small food packet to many on street corners and providing to the poor when possible,” the computer science engineer said.
“We have helped people off the street and helped them make something of their lives by means of helping them with the basics to survive.”
Trevor also encourages these people to join the Methodist Church’s 12-step programme for substance abuse.
Trevor and those who assist when they can look for organisations to help on a monthly basis.
“Trevor is always giving more to people than he earns, but that is Trevor and I will always love him and support him where I can,” Margie said.
“We as a family have assisted over 70 organisations and many more individuals in the community and will still do so for many years to come.
“We help with food, Christmas gifts, milk, bread, doctor’s bills, school clothes, the list is endless.”
For those who would like to contribute anything to this initiative, contact Trevor on 084 060 3233.
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