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Amos Mpofu, [email protected]

IN a heart-warming display of community spirit, the residents of Entumbane in Bulawayo have united once again to spread love and joy this festive season through a philanthropic initiative dubbed the “Christmas Food Hampers Project”. 

Spearheaded by two residents, Mr Nkosikhona Mlilo and Mrs Margaret Zulu, the initiative seeks to provide essential food parcels to vulnerable groups within the community, including the elderly, people living with disabilities, orphans, widows and other underprivileged residents. 

Launched last year with humble beginnings, the project is growing into a beacon of hope for the less fortunate. In 2023, the founders were able to donate hampers to just three families. This year, buoyed by the overwhelming support of well-wishers, their target has expanded to reach over 50 families.

 “We started this initiative last year to help just a few families. I discussed the idea with my sister, Mrs Catherine Zulu, and she wholeheartedly embraced it. Together, we were able to assist three families with the little we had,” said Mr Mlilo.

“This year, we decided to open up the initiative to the broader Entumbane community, and the response has been overwhelming.” 

What began as a small act of kindness has since blossomed into a community-wide movement. Initially, the pair aimed to assist 20 families. 

However, thanks to the generosity of residents and well-wishers from beyond, the number has now risen to over 50.

 “We never expected such a huge response,” Mr Mlilo shared, visibly touched by the outpouring of support. “The community has come together in ways we never imagined. People are contributing whatever they can, and it’s clear that the spirit of giving is alive and well here in Entumbane.”

The food hampers, which are set to be distributed on December 13, will include a 10kg of maize meal, 2kg of rice, a 2-litre bottle of cooking oil, 2 kg of sugar, 2kg of flour, 1 kg of salt, two packets of soup, a 750ml of tomato sauce, 2-litre orange crush drink, a loaf of bread, soap and a tin of baked beans. 

Mr Nkosikhona Mlilo

These items, though modest, aim to bring a bit of festive joy to families who would otherwise struggle during the holiday season.

“This initiative is about more than just giving food. It’s about giving back to the community and showing love for one another. We’re not doing this because we’re rich but because we care, and we believe that anyone can make a difference, no matter how small their contribution may seem,” said Mr Mlilo. 

He said the gesture aligns with the Biblical principle in Proverbs 19:17, which reads: 

“Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done.”

For Mrs Zulu, the initiative holds deep personal meaning. 

“For me, this is all about love. We saw how many disadvantaged people around us struggle, especially during Christmas. We didn’t want to focus only on our own families’ well-being while others were suffering. Even though it may not seem like much, we hope these hampers will bring some joy and relief to those in need,” she said.

 “This project has shown me that we live in a community full of love. People from all walks of life are willing to contribute, and it gives me hope for a safer, more compassionate community where people look out for one another.”

Mr Butholezwe Nxumalo, another key organiser of the initiative, echoed her sentiment.

“While Christmas is a time when people come together to celebrate and share joy, for some, it’s a time of hardship, particularly for the disabled, the elderly and orphans who may not have the means to enjoy the season,” he said.

“By providing these hampers, we’re not just giving food — we’re giving them a little bit of happiness and reminding them that they’re not forgotten.” 

The initiative has also drawn attention to the large number of vulnerable individuals in the Entumbane community. Over 200 residents are living with disabilities, with a similar number of elderly people and orphans in need of support. 

Community advisor, Mrs Grace Moyo praised the initiative for its ability to foster unity. “What’s truly remarkable about this project is how it brings people together. It encourages the spirit of sharing and reminds us of the importance of caring for our neighbours. When we step in to help someone in need, we build stronger bonds of respect and trust in our community,” she said.

Mrs Moyo also noted that the initiative embodies the true meaning of Christmas. 

“Christmas isn’t just about receiving gifts — it’s about giving. When we work together to support those less fortunate, we strengthen the very fabric of our community,” she said.