By NABEELAH MOHEDEEN

The Bridgetown-based Mustadafin Foundation worked with the Do More Foundation in Johannesburg to feed the hungry in recognition of Mandela Day .

According to Mustadafin’s director, Ghairuniesa Johnstone, the two organisations fed more than 160 000 people across the Cape Flats, from Monday July 13 to Mandela Day, on Saturday July 18.

The foundation usually fed the poor for 67 minutes on Mandela Day, but had decided to do something different this year, Ms Johnstone said.

“Do More had the same idea and objective that we have so when they approached us with the idea to partner we immediately accepted it,” she said.

“This pandemic has really hit people hard, left many people unemployed and homeless.”

The community was very grateful and the sponsors were very helpful, she said.

“Our sponsorships have made this possible; it’s been a real community effort.”

The partnership also includes 392 soup kitchens affiliated to Meals on Wheels, Afrika Tikkun, Save the Children, the Department of Social Development and other organisations.

Warren Farrer, from the Do More Foundation, said partnership and collaboration had been key to pulling off the big feed.

“There are many individuals and businesses that are putting up their hands to get involved. With the help of even more fellow South Africans, we can and will do more for vulnerable children and communities – not just for Mandela Day but into the future.”

He urged more people to get involved.

“It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when you look at rising unemployment and poverty statistics. But if you think about the impact even a single meal can make, and you make a decision to help a few people in some way, you start to change the story. You give hope,” he said.