When a bunch of ex-boxers get together to help their community great things can happen.
Jeff and Marie Ellis, Anton Gillmore and Natasha Constantinides, along with the help of André Thysse, Xolani Moyo and various other volunteers, feed over 160 people once a week on a Wednesday. They have been running this feeding scheme, “Walking tall with pride”, a non-profit organisation, since February 2017 at the Southern Suburbs Recreation Centre in Rosettenville.
After retiring from being a full-time boxer, Jeff decided he wanted to give back. In his free time he still trains other boxers.
Together with his wife and friends they decided to do something for their community and the great amount of people who are in need.
Not only do they feed over 160 people once a week, but also help out with various other things where and when they can.
This includes helping children with school fees, shoes and finding work for the jobless.
As Jeff said, “We live in a cruel society and we need to do as much as we can to help. It’s sad to see how many people are in dire need of support and something as simple as a warm meal.”
There were big pots of delicious stews being made, with a side of rice and each person was handed bread and a snack to take home with them.
“It’s been an incredible journey. It’s been amazing to see how people simply come along and volunteer without expecting anything back.
“People donate everything we need and we get to make a real difference. We see children grow up and go off to school.
“Loving our community brings a lot of satisfaction to each one of us,” Jeff added.
“It truly can be seen this group of people have a great love for their community.”
For anyone who would like to contribute to this great cause they can contact Marie Ellis on 078 457 3030.
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