Byline: Thendo Funyufunyu
Tuesday, 01 July 2025
Acts of kindness continue to shine through in local communities, with Shoprite’s Act For Change initiative bringing hope to those in need.
The Eeste Geluk Community Centre in Bethal received a generous R12,000 gift voucher from Shoprite as part of its ongoing commitment to social responsibility and community upliftment. On Thursday, 26 June 2025, the voucher was redeemed and was used to purchase essential food items to assist scholars, the elderly, and underprivileged individuals living on the surrounding farms of Bethal.
Chairperson of the centre, Mr Mafika Soko, expressed deep gratitude for the donation, sharing that it comes at a time when many families are struggling to put food on the table. “After identifying the most vulnerable members of our community, I made it my personal mission to ensure that no one in our farming areas goes to bed hungry. I knocked on many doors not limited to shops, corporates and anyone who could help. Shoprite Bethal answered our call,” said Soko.
Thanks to the R12,000 voucher, the centre was able to purchase and pack food parcels containing essential staples. These parcels will be distributed to families in need across several farm areas in the Bethal region. “This is more than just food, it’s hope. It’s dignity. It’s unity,” added Mr Soko.
The community centre commended Shoprite’s continued support of rural and disadvantaged communities, noting that such contributions make a meaningful impact at grassroots level. The donation falls under the retail giant’s Act For Change campaign, which supports numerous local organisations through food security initiatives and welfare support.
Distribution of the food parcels is scheduled to take place in the coming days, with local volunteers assisting to ensure that each identified family receives their share.
The Eeste Geluk Community Centre encourages other businesses and individuals to join hands in supporting their mission to build a stronger, more resilient community.
