Laughter filled the air as children living in Farrarmere Gardens ran and played.
Older siblings patiently sat with little tots, gasping with surprise every time clumsy little hands gifted a stone or leaf.
It is Tuesday, and the residents slowly gather to collect portions of lovingly prepared meals from Nelia du Plessis, an ‘angel’ who heeded their call for assistance.
In March, the Benoni City Times visited Government Village, as it was formerly known, and heard stories of residents fighting for survival.
Three months later, the residents don broad smiles and chat excitedly with neighbours with a pronounced sense of community in the air.
“Nelia’s involvement has given us new hope and opened our eyes to new possibilities,” said a resident who wished to remain anonymous.
“The feelings of hopelessness are slowly easing.”
Nelia explains that articles published in the City Times highlighting the plight of residents, who felt forgotten by the larger community, have drummed up tremendous support.
“These residents have, for years, faced immense financial difficulties, yet they carried this burden quietly, desperate to ensure they can put food on the table,” she said.
“Thanks to local support, new opportunities are winking in their favour.”
Skills development
Madaleen van Staden and her family recently relocated to Benoni from George.
“Being new in the area, I paged through the Benoni City Times, wanting a clearer understanding of the city’s culture,” she said.
“I read an article about these residents, wanting to establish a database of those seeking employment. It was hoped it would give them an indication of each individual’s skillset.
“Since then, I have assisted those willing and able to work by drafting CVs and replying to vacancy ads.”
Van Staden further offers informal soft skills development workshops and will help residents interested in agriculture attend a six-week workshop about establishing vegetable gardens.
“Residents who participate in this workshop seem excited about acquiring a new skill and the opportunity to grow vegetables, which could benefit the soup kitchen and the community.”
Community service
In April, Ayanaah Makyatho’s (12) mother again stumbled upon a City Times article highlighting Du Plessis’ ongoing work in the area.
“Our school tasked each learner to dedicate 10 hours to community service,” said the St Dunstan’s College learner.
“My mom urged me to commit my services here. At first, seeing so many people in need was difficult, but after spending time here, I was inspired. Being of service to others is enriching and something I enjoy.”
Mr South Africa top 30 contestant, Luaan Pieterse, eagerly greets and hugs some of the younger residents.
With his charming smile, the former Kempton Park resident committed 10 hours of community service to Du Plessis and the residents she has adopted as her own.
“Pageant requirements stipulate that contestants must participate in community enrichment programmes,” he said.
“After reading about the ‘gardens,’ I did not hesitate to reach out. I recently participated in a seasonal hunting excursion and will donate meat to the cause. I am also challenging followers on my social media to do the same.
This initiative and its beneficiaries are deserving of every blessing.”
Donations
Jan Lubbe of the Gereformeerde Kerk Benoni found nothing but gratitude when he arrived to deliver blankets to ward off the winter chill.
“When we read about the residents’ needs, we immediately started collecting clothes and blankets,” he said.
“A community in need is everyone’s business. No one should ever feel alone or forgotten.”
As Dan Taylor watches his neighbours gather around containers of steaming soup, he says he counts himself fortunate.
“I have been a resident here for nearly a year. I don’t have a car, and, in many instances, life has been kinder to me,” he said.
“I do, however, have a phone, which I use daily to secure food donations and, when possible, sweeties for the kids.
Life brought me to this point, but God placed me in the village to help. Helping others is life.”
Anyone willing to further assist Du Plessis and the work done in Farrarmere Gardens can call her on 082 669 6532.
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