Mary Papayya

Mary Papayya

Hundreds of poor people, including orphans from child-headed homes and widows, rejoiced and sang as they received New Year gifts of food hampers at Inanda yesterday.

The mothers said they were grateful for the parcels, which included basic foodstuffs such as maize meal and rice, and also groceries.

"This will go a long way and we are very grateful," said one mother.

The donation of food hampers and clothing was made possible through a generous sponsorship by a local bank, the agriculture and environmental affairs department and the local churches forum.

Provincial MEC for agriculture and environmental affairs Mtholephi Mthimkhulu handed over the parcels and said the initiative again highlighted the need for government to work together with private and public organisations to alleviate poverty.

The department is to provide the local orphanage with agriculture implements and seedlings so that they could begin their own small vegetable gardens to get fresh produce.

The children will also receive uniform vouchers.

A local councillor said he was embarking on a special programme with the department of social welfare to assist the children compelled to be breadwinners in the area.