Arlington farmer farther-and-son team assist the needy

Father-and-son team Dirk and Herman Janse van Rensburg of Pauciflora Farming and Arlington Steelworks, recently distributed 250 bags of maize meal to the needy in the town’s local township.

Herman said they had been doing this for the past number of years and would continue to do so in the coming year as well.

“We have not embarked on this project specifically because of the coronavirus disease [COVID19] pandemic, although it is our sincerest wish that it will bring some solace to the poorest of the poor, especially now,” he explained.

The Janse van Rensburgs purchased the maize meal to be donated from a local agribusiness, and in this way, were investing in the local agricultural value chain as well, he added.

The recipients of the donations were identified with the help of local South African Police Service (SAPS) officials and religious leaders in the community.

Herman said it was important to ensure that the food reached the people who needed it the most. The donations were staggered over a number of days and handed over to the people in groups of 50, to ensure that they adhered to the lockdown regulations.

According to Herman, it simply made sense to reach out a helping hand in their local community. “What is the sense to take food to, for instance, Bloemfontein, while our own people are suffering? I believe every person in the country needs to reflect on the challenges in their own area and act accordingly.” – Annelie Coleman