House of Hope: Geseende Hande Elandspoort - Bettie’s 25-Year Mission for Vulnerable Families

In the heart of Elandspoort, Pretoria West, one remarkable woman has been a pillar of compassion for a quarter-century. Bettie, a formidable force driven by deep empathy, began her feeding initiative 25 years ago after witnessing the hardships faced by her community members amid tough economic times. What started as a simple soup kitchen has grown into a vital lifeline, providing nutritious meals to struggling families and children in the community.

Recently, many parents and children queue patiently for a warm, hearty meal at Bettie’s centre – a place where no one leaves hungry. Her outreach began with serving those in wheelchairs but quickly expanded to entire families, offering regular meals filled with care and dignity. Bettie also launched the “Pap Project,” providing steaming hot porridge breakfasts to schoolchildren before classes. For many of these kids, who often go without dinner, this nourishing start fuels their day and supports their learning.

Bettie’s motivation stems from the pain she sees around her. “Somewhere a mother cries about her addicted child roaming the Elandspoort streets,” she shares. “I’m here to give hope and provide a haven of warmth and heartfelt care.”

Recently, the community came alive with joy during a special festive event hosted by Bettie. Over 400 people gathered in anticipation as she illuminated her venue with 12,500 twinkling Christmas lights. Guests were treated to snacks, a full meal, dessert, and cold drinks, with each person receiving a 5kg bag of mealie meal courtesy of a generous sponsor.

Unchain Our Children (UOC), an organization dedicated to uplifting vulnerable communities, recognized the growing needs at Bettie’s center. They canvassed their network and secured a meaningful donation: 16 new tables and 50 sturdy plastic chairs. The tables were festively decorated with Christmas tinsel and crackers, adding to the evening’s magic and bringing smiles to faces touched by this act of kindness.

Bettie’s initiative receives ongoing support from Geseende Hande in Danville, which generously shares food supplies. Formerly known as Mont Rose Soup Kitchen, the project is transitioning to Geseende Hande Elandspoort. Both Geseende Hande Danville and Geseende Hande Elandspoort resort under the protective wing of Unchain Our Children.

“Unchain Our Children pledges ongoing support for Bettie’s uplifting work,” says Wayne from UOC. “We will continue backing this incredible initiative.”

In a world where need persists, Bettie’s unwavering dedication reminds us of the profound impact one person’s empathy can have – nourishing bodies, restoring hope, and strengthening an entire community.

Discover & Connect:

Support Unchain Our Children: Contact Wayne: 072 364 8246

Report Child Abuse: UOC National Crisis Centre: 067 323 7116