SOJO Business and Tourism and SOJO Helping Hands Foundation together with the community celebrated the groundbreaking of the SOJO Helping Hands Foundation Community Farm.
The project is aimed at fostering sustainability and is set in the heart of Townsview on Resthaven Ministries’ property.
This innovative endeavour invites the Johannesburg south community to come together to cultivate fresh produce, promote healthy eating, and learn valuable gardening skills.
The farm space is 400m² and four champions have been selected to take on the project, where each person will be responsible for 100m².
With the support of volunteers and local businesses, the project aims not only to provide food security, offer skills development, and encourage SMME but also to strengthen community bonds and create a shared sense of purpose.
Two years ago SOJO Helping Hands Foundation wanted to reach out to the less fortunate and this was the beginning of talks to get the pilot farm project prototype going.
Founder of SOJO Helping Hands Foundation, Nicky Vakaloudis said: “This is a dream come true because our hearts are for the community and we cannot do it alone. We are grateful for the sponsors from ERM, New Concept Mining, Mall of the South, Plus Ten Hardware Distribution and Robot Industrial Supplies and the support of the SOJO Business and Tourism board members as well as Resthaven Ministries board members. We cannot wait to see what will transpire in the coming weeks.”
Green Earth Concepts has also partnered with the organisation to equip the four candidates with the necessary skills to take on the project. CEO of Green Earth Concepts, Gina Shoemaker highlighted: “Ten years ago we never thought of growing our own food. This farm will produce only organic vegetables and fruits. Gardening is not rocket science but a space of love.
“With growing our own food, we hope to uplift the community and curb food insecurity. It’s about educating and impacting because one person’s gardening can feed 250 people.”
This initiative promises to transform the neighbourhood into a thriving hub of fresh produce and employment. Vakaloudis added: “We can’t wait to see the positive impact this project will bring to our community and we will keep the community updated on the progress.”
