Philippi residents benefit from community outreach initiative

A welcome outreach initiative by Grassy Park Baptist Church’s Sunday School brought nourishment, joy, and educational support to 180 children and adults from three informal settlements in Philippi on Saturday, August 2.

The outreach, sparked during a Sunday School planning meeting, was made possible with the help of Ottery community leader Keith Blake, who identified Sonnekraal, Knole Park, and Pine Acres as communities in need.

The event was supported by food and resource donations from Grassy Park Baptist Church, the Caring Unicorns feeding scheme in Wetton, and the Bin Pickers Ministry in Grassy Park.

“It was a day of unity and giving,” said Ivan Johnson, a Sunday school teacher.

“One of our members led the group in prayer, and our volunteers handed out soup, books, and party packs to the children.”

Mr Johnson commended the children for their respectful behaviour and credited local leaders Erica Baatjies and Merelyn Sias for their guidance and involvement.

Sue Fester, of Caring Unicorns, who runs a soup kitchen every Wednesday on Foster Avenue in Wetton, contributed generously.

Known for feeding up to 700 people from areas including Hanover Park, Wetton, and Ottery, she provided hot soup and fresh rolls to support the outreach.

Merelyn Sias of Pine Acres has been running a feeding and early childhood education programme for over a decade. Her initiative teaches basic literacy to children as young as one. Many of the children she assists have never attended school - a challenge that continues to affect many rural and informal communities.

Heather and Kenny Felix of Bin Pickers Ministry also came on board, bringing Akni (a spiced rice dish), sponsored by the non-profit organisation RAUF.

“When we heard about the children in Philippi, we were eager to help, and everyone loves Akni,” said Ms Felix.

Mr Blake invited local adults to bring their pots to collect leftover food.

“We came to serve the children, but there was enough to bless the entire community,” he said.

Mr Blake has now issued a call to action: “This is a challenge to all. Step up and give back, whether it’s food, books, or simply your time. Our communities need us.”