With the nation under strict lockdown and increased unemployment, the plight of the Joe Slovo Park residents during these dark times, pressed heavy on our hearts.

The Century City Feed-A-Family initiative was brought to life at the end of April, with the joint efforts of Century City Property Owners’ Association (CCPOA), Rabie Property Group and Century City Conference Centre and Hotel.

]“We first had to find our feet in terms of the distribution and found an incredible partner in the Western Cape Red Cross Society, whose volunteers should have superhero status.” Says Glyn Taylor, joint CEO Century City Conference Centre and Hotel. “We further had to navigate through the inner hierarchy of the community and were impressed by the help of community members in assisting us in finding our way.  We were slowed down a few times by protests and days of heavy rain but continued, nonetheless.  Each food hamper was placed into the hands of a hungry family, aiming to reduce the amount of families who go to bed without a meal.”

The objective of the initiative was to procure, pack and distribute food hampers to feed a family of four for a month, delivered directly to the homes of Joe Slovo residents.  The operations and logistics were expertly managed by the Century City Conference Centre and Hotel, with the commendable efforts of the wonderful volunteers of the Western Cape Red Cross Society.

With the initial goal to distribute 5 000 food hampers and an eventual intent to assist as many hungry families as achievable, Century City Feed-A-Family raised more than R2.5-million, thanks to many individuals and firms who generously contributed.  With no management fees or packing and delivering charges applicable, every Rand contributed went towards the purchasing of foodstuffs.

“We wish to thank every individual and firm who contributed so generously to this initiative, as well as the amazing efforts of the volunteers of Red Cross Western Cape, members of the Joe Slovo community, staff of the Century City Hotel & Conference Centre and Century City Property Owners’ Association.” says Leon Cohen, CEO of Rabie.  “Without the combined philanthropic efforts of everyone involved, we would not have been able to give back to those who needed it most.”