Feed an empty tummy

This is one way in which South Africans can boost a huge drive against hunger this Christmas.

The Sunday Times and its sister titles in the Avusa stable have joined forces with Pick n Pay in support of one of SA's biggest food distribution organisations, FoodBank SA.

The Hampers against Hunger campaign kicked off this month with a R150000 donation by Pick n Pay and runs to the end of the year. Money raised will go to FoodBank SA.

And FoodBank is now encouraging ordinary South Africans during the festive season to whip up dinner for friends and families as part of the fundraiser.

Launched in 2009, FoodBank sources donated food, groceries and cash, which are distributed to 200000 smaller organisations to feed the needy.

In its first two years, FoodBank donated about 32 million meals worth R121-million.

Those who benefit include school feeding schemes, church organisations, children's homes, places of safety and creches.

The Tehillah Collaborative Community Centre in Cape Town receives a weekly bulk consignment of groceries that include mealie meal, rice, a variety of vegetables and milk. As a result the centre, which relies on donations, is able to feed about 800 people daily.

The deputy CEO of the centre, James Louw, said regular contributions from FoodBank made a huge difference in the lives of many who would otherwise have nothing to eat.

"We are not funded by the government, but we are able to provide nutritious meals," he said.

Pick n Pay is encouraging its customers to donate "Smart Shopper points" at kiosks in stores or to donate small change at designated in-store money boxes.

Customers can also make a donation as part of their purchases at tills or contribute while shopping online.

The company's CEO, Nick Badminton, said: "Our collaboration with FoodBank SA provides a way for us to help our customers to give in a tangible and meaningful way at a time when people need it the most."

FoodBank SA fundraising manager Lynn Witten said she was excited about the campaign, which will enable the organisation to feed more people.