Statistics show that 30% of South Africans do not have access to sufficient and nutritious food - one third of this percentage constitutes children. Poor mental and physical development, illness and stress are only some of the effects malnutrition has on these children.
Shoprite started the Mobile Soup Kitchen project in 2007 and since then Royco has been a loyal partner by providing dry soup powder to support the project. Shoprite describes Royco as probably their biggest partner, since they have donated approximately R2 million over the past three years. The Mobile Soup Kitchen trucks make about three to four stops each and each feed up to 500 people per day. Over 3 million cups of soup have been distributed over South Africa to schools, old age homes, HIV/AIDS homes as well as orphanages. Royco sees their involvement in the Mobile Soup Kitchen project as their way to make a difference in the communities of our country. "You don't always realize how much of a difference you can make. At Mars, we have the freedom to do the best job we can. It's all about your passion", says Ronquest.
Food fortification has shown over the years to be a cost effective way to improve public health. Through the successful testing implementation of fortification on Royco's dry soup powders, alongside the standard staple foods fortification premix, the nutritional needs of these people are being addressed and met as closely as possible.
Partnerships are essential for any project of this nature. DSM Nutritional Foods has also come on board through donating the vitamins and mineral fortification premix. Some of the other brands involved include Albany, Volkswagen, Mercedes Benz and Toyota.
Walking into a conference of this nature, one expects to be inundated with cold, clinical facts. You don't expect to walk away touched to the core, with an uncomfortable lump in your throat. Yet this is exactly what this incredible social corporate investment on the part of Shoprite and Mars Africa managed to do. It is a great example of how, even in the midst of widespread social- and economic upheaval, a great amount of good can be done when the right people become involved. These companies should be commended for initiating this worthy project.
When asked how such a seemingly small contribution managed to turn into a large, well-organised relief effort, Ronquest replied by quoting Margaret Mead: "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever does." It just goes to show, one should never underestimate the impact a small act of kindness can have on the lives of many.
