On 24 September, while South Africans all across the country were lighting up fires to commemorate Heritage Day – also known as National Braai Day – a group of big-hearted volunteers decided to spark fires of a different kind. Led by Duane Brassell, the manager of FBSA’s branch in Port Elizabeth, the group decided to spend the public holiday distributing food to those without the means to braai.
Duane’s band of 20 volunteers included titleholders from Rolemodels Pageants who wanted the opportunity to really make a difference in under-privileged communities.
Armed with boxes of Steri-Stumpie strawberry-flavoured milk, generously donated by Parmalat, and Yogueta lollipops donated by Natela Importers, the distributors of Ferrero Rocher, the group set off on a mission to spoil as many beneficiaries as they could reach in one day.
By the end of the day, which started at 9am, the group had visited 14 agencies ranging from children’s homes, old age homes, places of safety, shelters and soup kitchens serving about 2,000 beneficiaries in total.
“By the end of the day, every individual’s heart had been touched. The smiles and hugs expressed what cannot be put in words. This is the reason I feel blessed to be part of FoodBank: we get to make a difference,” said Duane.
When we give to others, we’re always reminded that it is more blessed to give than to receive.
Well done, Duane. You and your team do us proud!
