Bathurst, a rural farming community, is plagued by many socio-economic challenges. The town’s economy is heavily reliant on seasonal employment, leaving many residents vulnerable to poverty and unemployment. Furthermore, the prevalence of HIV/AIDS, malnutrition, substance abuse, and illiteracy exacerbate the community’s struggles.
In the face of these daunting challenges, a group of unemployed women Zoleka Marais, Andiswa Sesman, Sukiswa Rach, Nontando Makasi and Vuyolwethu Siyolo took it upon themselves to become agents of change. In 2010, they established the Valley of Hope Soup Kitchen, a beacon of hope for the community’s most vulnerable members. The soup kitchen was officially registered as a non-profit organisation in 2016.
Operating on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 2pm, at 2674 Nolukhanyo Township in Bathurst, the Valley of Hope Soup Kitchen provides a vital lifeline for those struggling to make ends meet. According to Zoleka Marais, who manages the soup kitchen, the number of beneficiaries varies, with a significant surge in attendance during the middle of the month when grant money is scarce.
“Our mission is to ensure that no one in our community goes to bed with an empty stomach,” Marais explains. “We cater to the most vulnerable members of our society, including disabled and neglected children, the sick, and the hungry.”
The Valley of Hope Soup Kitchen has been fortunate to receive support from various stakeholders, including St John’s Church in Bathurst, the Ndlambe Municipality, and Mary Riley and her group. However, despite this support, the soup kitchen still faces significant challenges.
One of the biggest hurdles is the reliance on wood fires for cooking, which becomes necessary when the 9kg gas stove runs empty. Although the Ndlambe Municipality provides a 9kg gas cylinder quarterly, Marais notes that this is not a sustainable solution.
To mitigate this challenge, members of the Valley of Hope Soup Kitchen and Bathurst community assist collect firewood from the surrounding bush, making sure that their mission to feed the vulnerable is not compromised. The use of a three-legged iron pot, although primitive, is a testament to the resourcefulness and determination of the women behind the soup kitchen.
As Marais looks to the future, she hopes that this story will reach potential donors and supporters who can help the Valley of Hope Soup Kitchen overcome its challenges. With increased support, the soup kitchen can continue to provide a vital service to the community, restoring dignity and hope to those who need it most.
If you are interested in helping in any way contact Zoleka Marais – 073-296-3627
- This article was first published in Talk of the Town, January 30, 2025. The newspaper serving the communities of Ndlambe and the Sunshine Coast, with a weekly wrap of Makhanda news, is available at stores from early on Thursdays.
