Volunteers give charity a human face

The 42-year-old, of Mount Moriah, and her husband, Nelson, work tirelessly every day rummaging through scrap.

The items they deem valuable are sold, and the money used to buy food to feed their four children, who range in age from 4 to 22.

The couple, who have been married for 20 years, also rely on food vouchers dished out by the organisation when available.

Andrew said when members of the organisation visited their home, it was as though God had sent them.

“They bless us with food and help us with whatever we need, from school wear to second-hand clothes.”

She learnt about the organisation 19 years ago.

“I met uncle Vinesh (Ramlakan), a case worker at Child Welfare South Africa – Duffs Road, and he gave us our first hamper for Diwali.

“They’ve been there for us since, but I understand there is only so much they can do.” When there is no longer food in their kitchen cupboard, Andrew said she and her husband go out looking for scrap to sell.

ROOKSANA ANDREW: PREMILLA GOVENDER:

Child Welfare South Africa – Duffs Road has not only helped the 44-year-old, of Bhambayi, with food and vouchers but through some of the toughest times in her life.

The mother of four, who has been receiving help since 2012, was left devastated when her spouse died in 2014.

“I had four children to support and barely had money to conduct a funeral.

“Every member of the organisation chipped in and helped me give my husband a decent and proper send-off. A few days later, my RDP home in Bhambayi burnt down, and once again, they came out in their numbers to help. They sourced the material and rebuilt my home. They even found a business to sponsor our beds.”

The unemployed woman, who broke down in tears, said she had also suffered from depression, and the organisation had provided her with counselling.

“What touches me the most, is that they are always willing to come out the moment we call for help. I hope this organisation goes on for years and continues to carry out good deeds,” said Govender, who earns a meagre income selling clothing on the streets. Her children are aged 15 to 25.

Does odd jobs, including washing and ironing, for others to earn a living.

The 28-year-old mother of three, of Bhambayi, who works part-time at a Phoenix bakery, said: “In 2014, my aunt advised me to make contact with the organisation, so a case worker could visit my home and assess our conditions. Child Welfare South Africa – Duffs Road has been providing us with food and care since.

“When my children spot uncle Vinesh heading towards our home, they get so excited. It’s as if Santa Claus is coming to meet us.

“They hug him and share jokes with him.”

Pillay said she had received clothing and blankets and that Ramlakan was trying to assist her in applying for a child support grant.

Like Govender, she sells

EVELYN PILLAY:

clothing and remains hopeful she will secure a job.

DEONARAIN:

The 47-year-old did not think that leaving work, due to poor health, would affect his family the way that it had.

The former alarm technician, who has been receiving help from Child Welfare South Africa – Duffs Road, described the organisation as a blessing in disguise.

“They don’t complain when they come to our homes and help us.

“There are six of us living in a one-bedroom house in Mount Moriah and they are helping us build another bedroom.

“Dad (Ramlakan) even employed my eldest son to do odd jobs, so he can build himself up and earn an income. Normally organisations just hand out vouchers and leave, but they take the time out to get to know all of us. For us, this is also important.”