Joburg Market steps up to meet Sparrow Village hunger needs
Departments of Social Development and Economic Development lend weight to assist struggling AIDS hospice
Legacies are preserved by the sustainable commitment to standards. Excellence may fade but concealed potential cannot be hidden forever.
Sparrow Village on Nadine Street was opened in 1992 as the world’s very first dedicated AIDS hospice, catering for mothers with AIDS and the orphans left behind. Together with the Department of Social Development, Department of Economic Development and Joburg Market, Sparrow Village received a much-needed donation of fresh fruit and vegetables, 9 December.
“We are the pillar of food security in South Africa and with so many institutions struggling, we felt it is our duty to assist, especially during the 16 Days of Activism,” said Joburg Market CEO, Leanne Williams. The invaluable fresh produce trading hub services roughly 5 000 farmers who distribute their products to almost 10 000 buyers daily.
Lawrence Khoza, MMC for Economic Development, spoke from the heart in his brief address, saying, “This is an exciting initiative. It is difficult to celebrate with our families and not care about the destitute. There can be no greater privilege than investing in the betterment of others.” MMC for Health and Social Development, Eunice Mgcima echoed her colleague’s message and commitment to a lasting relationship with Sparrow Village. “We welcome this with both hands. We know that together we can do more,” said MMC Mgcima.
The three entities have pledged to keep the over 200 residents of the grand old project at the forefront of their efforts. Jane Mabasa is a fine example of the potential the village has as a vehicle for upliftment. Now 27 years old, Jane grew up at Sparrow Village and will soon be completing her studies at UNISA. In her own words she confirmed that, “It takes a village to raise a child”.
Dignitaries were then treated to the xylophonic charms of the excited children of Sparrow Village. Taking the journey since the village’s inception, Reverend Corine McClintock has lived all the peaks and troughs of the last three decades. With faith and optimism, she believes in a bright future, saying, “God is in control. Without Him we could never have survived. Sparrow Village is the Phoenix rising from the ashes.”
