The DLS’s second project for Mandela Day: “Soup-in-a-Bottle” at The Inn House Homeless Shelter

The Department of Library Services, in collaboration with the Community Outreach and Engagement focus group, is excited to announce the successful completion of Project 2: "Soup-in-a-Bottle." Held on 18 July 2024, at The Inn House a homeless shelter, one of the various beneficiaries of the Tshwane Leadership Foundation, this initiative aimed to organise a donation drive and communal meal event to support individuals experiencing homelessness in our community.

The primary objective of "Soup-in-a-Bottle" was to provide nourishing soup ingredients layered into bottles to those in need, fostering a sense of community and support. By bringing together volunteers, donors, and those we aimed to help, we created an environment of warmth, understanding, and shared humanity. The Inn House is an inclusive space that embraces all religions and cultures, ensuring everyone feels welcome and respected. 

In the weeks leading up to the event, the focus group, led by Othilia Matjomane, collected donations of non-perishable soup ingredients. The library staff’s response was overwhelmingly positive, and we were able to gather a significant amount of ingredients for distribution. As part of the donation drive, we packed 116 bottles of soup ingredients, each layered to provide five plates of healthy food for the residents. During these difficult times, with government subsidies cut, the residents rely heavily on public donations for food. 

On the day of the event, volunteers prepared and served a communal meal at The Inn House homeless shelter. Warm tea and scones, as well as sandwiches, were served and enjoyed by the elderly members of the community, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Our focus group mingled with them, listened to their stories, and treated them with lollipops and packets of Simba chips. 

Also present at the shelter at the same time as our group, were representatives from SAPS Pretoria Central, SAPS Forensic Division, Pretoria Technical College, and Foot Gear. Their presence and support added to the sense of community and collaboration, highlighting the collective effort to support those in need. A spokesperson from SAPS emphasised the importance of expressing love to our world, stating, "Human love knows no limits." 

A special moment during the event was when we celebrated one of the residents' birthdays. We all sang “Happy Birthday” to him, which he thoroughly enjoyed, and there was not a single dry eye in sight. 

Homelessness is a pressing issue that affects individuals and families in our community. By coming together to support this cause, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who are struggling. "Soup-in-a-Bottle" is more than just a meal; it's an opportunity to show compassion, build connections, and strengthen our community. 

We invite everyone to join us in future endeavours. Your participation, whether through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, will help make these initiatives successful. Together, we can provide not only meals but also hope and a sense of belonging to those who need it most. Let's make a difference, one bowl of soup at a time. 

By focusing on collaboration and community support, the "Soup-in-a-Bottle" event embodied the spirit of outreach and engagement. We look forward to continuing these efforts and making a positive impact together.