Joburg Market Food Centre nourishes communities
The entities cooperate to assist the most vulnerable communities to improve food security.
The Joburg Market Food Support Centre is a vital lifeline for struggling residents.
This social responsibility initiative provides essential food aid to indigent families and disadvantaged communities across Johannesburg.
Since its inception in 2004, the centre has donated tons of fresh produce to churches, schools, and NPOs. It also partners with the Department of Economic Development to procure and distribute vegetables, adhering to strict health and safety standards.
Richard Moila, the centre’s manager, highlights the crucial role of collaboration with the expanded social package programme in reaching those most in need.
Beyond food aid, the centre offers funeral packages to indigent families, providing support during difficult times.
“Our entity is small and without sponsors, so we only prioritise areas within the City of Johannesburg (CoJ).
“The centre also prepares funeral packages for indigent families who have lost loved ones,” said Moila.
The centre operates an approved database facilitated by the indigent programme of the city, formally known as the expanded social package.
They aligned a significant portion of donations to the indigent policy, an essential strategy by the CoJ and Joburg Market to combat poverty.
“The procedure for funeral packages is coordinated through local ward councillors, who serve as the bridge between the CoJ, Joburg Market, and impoverished communities.
“To apply, the requestor must provide proof of being part of the expanded social package (ESP), the death certificate, the deceased’s ID, the requestor’s ID, a councillor’s letter requesting the donation, and an affidavit if the surnames of the deceased and the requestor differ,” added Moila.
Through its unwavering commitment to the community, the Joburg Market Food Support Centre has become a beacon of hope, offering sustenance and dignity to countless residents.
Joburg Market’s food centre also distributes food parcels to the elderly, old age homes, and shelters for abused women during community charity events initiated by the MMC of Economic Development, Clr Nomoya Mnisi.
