In the heart of the sprawling urban landscape of Pretoria East lies Plastic View, an informal settlement where life unfolds amidst the challenges of poverty and lack of basic amenities. As the cold front swept through Pretoria, bringing biting winds and chilly temperatures, the residents of Plastic View found themselves facing yet another hurdle in their daily struggle for survival.
Amidst this backdrop, together with CRC Cares, we embarked on a mission of compassion and solidarity. Armed with pots of warm soup, crates of apples, and loaves of bread, we journeyed to Plastic View with a simple yet powerful objective: to provide warmth, nourishment, and a moment of relief to those in need.
The scene upon our arrival was one of both resilience and humility. Tightly packed shacks lined the dirt roads, children played amidst the dust, and the sense of community prevailed despite the harsh realities of poverty. As we set up with only a fold-open table, the aroma of hearty soup filled the air, drawing curious eyes and hopeful smiles from the residents.
With ladles in hand, we began serving steaming cups of soup, accompanied by slices of bread and crisp apples. The gratitude expressed by the community was overwhelming, as individuals and families alike eagerly accepted the warm meal offered to them. For many, it was a momentary reprieve from the hardships they faced, a reminder that even in the darkest of times, kindness and compassion can shine through.
The impact of our outreach efforts extended beyond the confines of Plastic View, resonating deeply within our own hearts and minds. It served as a stark reminder of the privilege and responsibility we hold to stand in solidarity with those marginalized and forgotten by society, to lend a helping hand in times of need, and to advocate for lasting solutions to the systemic issues that perpetuate poverty and inequality.
As we packed up our supplies, our hearts were filled with a sense of gratitude and humility. While our gesture may have been small in the grand scheme of things, the ripple effect of
compassion and kindness it created serves as a testament to the power of collective action and the profound impact we can have when we come together with a shared purpose.
My experience in Plastic View has served as a catalyst for continued outreach, advocacy, and solidarity with those in need. And may we never lose sight of the inherent humanity that binds us all together, uniting us in our shared journey towards a more compassionate society. We are reminded that true fulfilment lies not in what we have but in what we give – together, we can make a difference, one bowl of soup at a time.
15 April 2024