Smiles and tears of joy could be seen on the faces of the homeless as they helped themselves to clothes, food and blankets in Lansdowne last week.
The Mahala Market, a free market for the needy, was launched at Epilepsy SA’s premises in Lansdowne on Thursday July 18, Mandela Day.
The needy could choose five items from the rails of clothing, shoes and bags. And each person got a beanie, a cup of soup and a sandwich.
The Al-Imdaad Foundation, a non-profit humanitarian aid organisation, donated 67 blankets, and each woman was given a pack of sanitary pads.
Each person was given two coupons – one for the clothing and one for food – which they used to pay at a till point, and there goods were packed for them as they would be at a supermarket.
Epilepsy SA social worker Jaydene Basson said they had been looking for something different to do on Mandela Day. Many people still lacked basic necessities, such as food and clothing, she said.
About 200 people came to browse.
The donations of clothing, and soup ingredients came from all over the community.
“We want to thank all our donors not only for their donations but for their time as well,” Ms Basson said.
Al-Imdaad Foundation project coordinator Yusuf Raja said: “We are always happy to assist the less fortunate. For some of us, what they received today is a luxury and we hope to be part of more initiatives here at Epilepsy SA.”