Self-funded project changes many lives
Kurten stated that the project was supposed to be once off but due to the determination they have and their will to help others, the project grew to become what it is today.
The Abundance Project has been changing the lives of many around Tzaneen, putting smiles on their faces and filling the stomachs of young and old.
The project is the social responsibility initiative of the Letaba Bassmasters, says Wayne Kurten (chairman). It is headed up by Vanmelle Nel (project manager) and Petro Nel (project coordinator) and it aims to give back to those who are less fortunate. Their slogan is “Share the Bounty”.
“The project is totally self-funded and we help several organizations with basic needs, ranging from food to clothing and personal hygiene products, such as deodorant, soap, toothpaste and sanitary towels. Our members contribute either financially to a specific need, but primarily in the form of products which is our preferred way of assistance,” Kurten explained.
The Letaba Bassmasters started the initial once-off initiative in 2016 for a young cancer patient. Now it has grown into a major contributor to charitable causes and institutions in the area.
The project donates to SAVF, Noah’s Ark, God’s Haven, Pioniers (retirement village) and Ouma Tina who takes care of around 34 children in Modjadjiskloof. Determination is one of the trio’s traits.
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They have secured partnerships with Sasol Tzaneen on the R71, Steers, Debonairs in the Lifestyle Centre and Debonairs in the Tzaneen Mall, Giramundo’s, Fishaways and Lufafa Hatchery.
“A special mention goes to Hotel@Tzaneen and Crawdaddy’s as they have been part of the project from its onset. We have received tremendous support from all these businesses and their continued support has been simply amazing.”
“Over and above a supply of freshly baked pita bread we receive several times a week from both the Debonairs outlets, the monthly food parcels from Sasol Tzaneen on the R71 and Steers have made a big difference.”
The food parcels consist of chicken, rice, mealie meal and eggs from Lufafa Hatchery. The parcels are delivered by the staff directly to Ouma Tina, Gods Haven and Noah’s Ark on or around the 14th of every month.
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The Abundance team was also instrumental in setting up a food donation to a small orphanage with six children in Nkowankowa. A comprehensive food parcel is provided by Premjees in Tzaneen on a monthly basis directly to the orphanage.
Petro also drives a “Xmas Cheer” project with varying themes and ideas. She is already busy planning something for the 2020 “Xmas Cheer”. Last year she reached out to a few organizations and managed to put together a goodie bag, containing items such as hand lotion, soap, treats or rusks and a family magazine.
“In 2019, we handed out over 100 of these Christmas parcels, even the car guards at Lifestyle Centre received a gift pack each. Vanmelle was telling us how excited the children get when they see him walking into a local crèche with warm pita bread.”
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“They now call me ‘the pita man’. It’s about making an impact and leaving a legacy for the project and the sport. This is not about individuals, it’s about collectively making a small difference in somebody’s life!” explained Vanmelle.
The Letaba Bassmasters club is held in high regard by the bass fishing fraternity in South Africa for what they have achieved.
Anyone who would like to get involved can contact the team on Facebook on The Letaba Bassmasters page or email on letababassmasters@gmail.com.
