From ‘Mama’s’ kitchen, with love
CRAIGHALL PARK – Craighall Park residents Anna Mathebula and Sarah Clark, together with the Clark family and support of the local community, have shown what can happen when great hearts (and minds) come together, in support of a worthy cause.
Craighall Park residents Annah Mathebula and Sarah Clark seem the best of friends as they relate their story of how they, and their family, have embraced the community around them this past year.
Clark is actually Mathebula’s boss, however, she confides that Mathebula is one of the family. When Covid-19 hit, becoming aware of pressing needs in the community around them, they started regular feeding and outreach initiatives for the homeless and beggars in the area.
Mathebula, an ace in the kitchen, started to cook, and cook and cook for the homeless… and the resulting appreciation has been so great that they have considered giving the initiative a name, ‘Mama’s Care Kitchen’.
The women said they didn’t just put any meals together. “Annah creates meals of gourmet quality,” said Clark.
“I use herbs, spices and good oil,” said Mathebula.
“We also ensure we create nourishing meals with all of the food groups,” added Clark.
Clark works as a trauma counsellor and said being in her line of work, she had witnessed the ravages of the pandemic from the outset. “The beggars and homeless people in our area, previously ‘faceless’, have become valuable to us, as we have gotten to know their names and identities,” she said.
“Like Percy, who is a qualified barista, who has battled to find work because he lacks shower and ablution facilities, and is unable to find reliable transport,” said Mathebula.
“There is also Joseph with experience in mining. Many of them are qualified and just need someone to believe in them.”
Together, they have helped many destitute people to get ID documents sorted out, and assisted with applications and training requirements for work, as well as stepped in to help those living with addictions and get them admitted into rehab.
“Why do we get along so well? I think we are both eccentric in our compassion,” said Clark. “Covid-19 has demanded society pay attention to certain pressing issues. We are just doing what everyone should be doing. The community has always supported us when we have put forward requests online.”
Mathebula said over Christmas they had put together a huge feast for those in need. “There was a spread of food in all colours in the kitchen as we prepared peppers, pumpkin and peas.”
What’s next for them? “My wish list is for a delivery vehicle, branded ‘Mama’s Care Kitchen’,” said Mathebula.
Details: Annah Mathebula 082 436 4909.
