Loeriehof helps the homeless

KNYSNA NEWS - A feeding scheme launched and pioneered by Loeriehof Old Age Home has taken on a different way to help feed the less fortunate in Knysna.

Taking the form of meal tickets, the feeding scheme is into its third month of supporting the homeless and less fortunate around town, having been launched in May.

It has however been in the works for a while as the governing body that oversees the organisation has previously considered launching and running the initiative. The Covid-19 pandemic put a stop to those plans - but only for a little while.

Come the start of 2022 and the easing of the Covid-19 pandemic and lockdown regulations, Loeriehof saw an opportunity to finally get the initiative off the ground.

After a few months of preparations they sold their first meal ticket and dished out their first meal at the start of May. The food is prepared by Feedem - a contract catering company that prepares the meals for all the residents at Loeriehof.

"The meals are really great quality; members of staff and our governing body regularly purchase meals for themselves and their families," said Loeriehoef manager Simone de Jager who also explained where the idea for the feeding scheme originated.

"Knysna has a major problem with homeless people and/or people who simply don't make enough to sustain a living. So many people therefore resort to begging on the side of the road, hoping for anything."

The feeding scheme is simple. "All people need to do is visit Loeriehof, buy a meal ticket for R40, and give it out to someone they feel is in need. This person can then come to Loeriehof with their meal ticket to redeem their free meal."

De Jager said there has been a very positive response to the initiative, which is also a way for the organisation to raise funds for itself.

"The meals are intended to help those in need, and the money that is raised from the feeding scheme is poured back into Loeriehof to help fund any projects or needs we have - such as a new elevator for our residents," she said.

Crystal Titus, cleaning supervisor for Feedem, and Desiree, Loeriehof’s receptionist.

One of the unintended yet priceless benefits that have arisen from the project is the development of a community that has even seen people reunited with long-lost family members.

"We had someone come to redeem a meal ticket one day, and they started chatting with one of our staff, soon realising that they were extended family members. One of them had not seen members of his family for years."

If you would like to open your heart and your wallet to support the initiative, please visit Loeriehof in Graham Street to purchase a meal ticket or two.