Hearty meals make a difference at Jabulani
With a passion for helping others, this community member ensures residents at the old age home receive a hearty and nutritious meal every Wednesday.
A COMMUNITY member with a passion for helping others, cooks a hearty meal once a week for about 80 residents of Jabulani – The Kingsburgh Welfare organisation for the Aged.
Denise Ashburner said she has faced many struggles in her life, and knows what it is like to go without food.
“Most of the pensioners only live off a Sassa grant, which is not a lot of money to cover monthly expenses, especially meat. By cooking every Wednesday I am able to provide a nutritious and hearty meal, as many residents have said this is the only decent meal they eat during the week,” she said.
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Denise started her feeding initiative at Jabulani about four years ago, however, she has been feeding those in need for years.
“My dream has always been to own a soup kitchen, as I have a passion for helping others. I’ve helped out at many non-profit oragnisations and churches, as well as cooked meals from my house and delivered to those on the streets. I know how important that meal is for those who cannot afford it,” she said.
Although she does not call herself a chef, she is always willing to help those who need it. “It’s a different type of gratitude. When you do something good, and you see the appreciation on people’s faces, it makes it all worth it. If I can help make a difference in just one person’s life, then I’ve done my job,” said Denise.
In the beginning, she was making the meals with her personal income, however, it was becoming too costly. Fortunately, sponsors came on board to assist.
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“None of this would be possible without the help of community member, Carol Lane, and the various businesses and people who donate food on a once-off or weekly basis. There are a lot of kind people, and I appreciate them all,” said Denise.
She does not have a set menu and decides what meal to make on a Tuesday, depending what donations have come in and what food is available. She starts cooking at 08:30 and just after 13:00 the residents make their way down to the communal area to dish up.
The more food, more specifically meat, or monetary donations Jabulani receives, the more often Denise can come cook for the residents.
For more information, contact Denise on 079 985 6899. Alternatively, contact Jabulani on 068 019 7053 to make a donation towards the ‘Wednesday meals’ or to drop off food.
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