According to Ilka Stein: “The demand for the kitchen just grew and grew. People queued out into the streets… sometimes we were scared the food would run out, but it was always dignified and disciplined.”
This saw a series of innovations getting underway which, although still in early stages, are beginning to bear fruit – or should I say food.It’s now July and midwinter. Instead of one food kitchen located at Victoria Yards, today there are five kitchens in the community – each providing “at least one wholesome warm meal a day” to anywhere between 50 and 200 people.
Jojo explained that when her team goes door to door, “we ask people if they have space to grow their own veggies where they stay, either in the yard or on the pavement”. The idea is that, “as funds allow”, interested residents will be supplied with a garden starter pack that includes seeds, seedlings and compost. Siya and his team will then provide ongoing guidance and link the local farmers to a network of “mutual support and learning”.Finally, Zweli Magwaza and his wife,, lead a team that is piloting the community Swop Shop.