In uShakaville KwaDukuza (near Stanger), you may hear the laughter of children or perhaps singing emanating from a creche on the grounds of a church.
Nearby there’s a food garden where members of the community can be seen diligently tending rows of vegetables. This is testament to Seed of Hope’s ambitious project, which has provided a creche for orphans and a source of food for hundreds of people within an impoverished community. Run on a co-operative basis, the project has also afforded the residents a measure of independence and pride.
“It began with a small missionary church,” says co-ordinator Louis Meyer. “In time, the creche was built on the church grounds with support from the Dutch Reformed Church in uMhlanga, donations from friends and the invaluable driving force of Reverend Simon Kwesaba and his wife Eunice (right). We then obtained some ground from the municipality and planted a food garden to feed the creche children as well as providing for the community. Hampered by a lack of knowledge and growing techniques, we eventually got Checkers on board as part of a Food and Trees initiative which really literally got things growing. The vegetable garden is doing well, though we still need to buy in food which is our biggest cost factor.
“This is such a rewarding project in that it’s made a great impact fostering a feeling of ownership rather than relying on donations. Our goal is to get the whole operation self-sufficient,” says Louis.
Christmas Wish List: To replace Reverend Simon’s bakkie which is falling apart; volunteers for garden work; clothing; food.
Banking details: KZN CMD Bank ABSA, account no 4054396843, branch 632005, Reference Seed of Hope.
NPO (009-231) allows them to give an article 18A tax rebate certificate.
Louis Meyer: 082 781 9317