For its fourth giveaway this month, the Make A Difference (MAD) team headed to Pick ‘n Pay in Vangate Mall on Wednesday. People from the surrounding community flocked to the store as the VOC team hosted the live outside broadcast. VOC and Pick n Pay assisted another 50 less fortunate individuals by gifting them with a voucher of R250 toward their groceries, just in time for Eid.

A young girl names Faseegah surviving leukemia was one of the recipients who warmed the hearts of the VOC team and Pick ‘n Pay staff. The eight year old is currently receiving treatment. Despite her hair falling out as a result of the medication, she walked away with a smile on her face as she received her voucher with her mother.

“I love marshmallows and I will be using this money to buy some for myself and my family,” Faseegah said.

“Thank you to VOC and Pick ‘n Pay for the present they have given me.”

A little overwhelmed, Natheera Lee from Heideveld said the voucher came at a perfect time. She explained of the difficult times she has seen with her family in recent months due to a lack of employment.

“I am so grateful and cannot express how much I appreciate this. Throughout this month of Ramadan, we have had to make do with the little that we have. When we received the call from Pick ‘n Pay, we were over the moon and it is just in time for Eid celebrations. Thank you so much to all who made this happen,” Lee said, through tears.

Ebrahim Arendse was extremely thankful for his contribution.

“You know, it is through projects like this in our communities that really show us the importance of unity and doing something for the greater good. When you think things can’t get any worse, something just completely changes and gives you another chance. This money will go towards making this Eid a special one for my family. I want VOC and Pick n Pay to know that when I am at the table, about to eat my supper, I will offer a special duah for all those involved in this campaign,” Arendse said.

An overwhelmed and emotional Roslynne Stevens accepted the voucher on behalf on her sister who has been diagnosed with cancer.

“My sister cannot work. This voucher will go towards her diapers, food and something for her children. We are so grateful to VOC and Pick ‘n Pay for showing that they care,” Stevens said.

Recipients were chosen from motivational letters which VOC and Pick ‘n Pay received from concerned members of the community.

The last Make a Difference Campaign will be taking place on Friday, 25 July 2014 at Ottery Hypermarket. VOC will be broadcasting live from 2pm-3pm. VOC (Ra’eesah Isaacs)