By Teboho Moloi
QWA QWA – In a powerful demonstration of faith in action, the Church of Christ Apostolic in Jerusalem has launched a food bank programme aimed at supporting struggling families within its congregation and the broader community.
The initiative was officially unveiled on Sunday at Mamello Primary School Hall, where dozens of vulnerable families received essential food parcels to help ease the burden of rising living costs.
Church leaders said the programme seeks to provide immediate relief to disadvantaged households facing financial hardships and food insecurity, while promoting compassion and solidarity among congregants.
Leading the initiative, Pastor Keke Motshwane described the food bank as a practical expression of the church’s commitment to caring for those in need.
“The food bank is a temporary solution, but it is also a way for the church to demonstrate compassion, unity and care for vulnerable families. We want to ensure that no member of our congregation goes hungry,” said Motshwane.
He said the programme is rooted in values passed down by his late parents, who dedicated their lives to serving both God and the community.
“I grew up in this church where serving God and helping others was a way of life. After the passing of my parents, I was entrusted with the responsibility of leading the church. They taught me the importance of caring for disadvantaged families by providing food, clothing and support to those in need,” he said.
“I am carrying forward the values and teachings they instilled in me. I do not want to see anyone struggling when I am in a position to help. As a church, we must be a source of hope and compassion for our community.”
Motshwane also challenged churches to focus on uplifting congregants rather than placing additional financial demands on those already battling poverty and unemployment.
“Our mission is to uplift, support and bring hope to the community, not to place additional financial pressure on people who are already going through difficult times. The cost of living is extremely high, and many of our congregants are unemployed or depend on social grants to survive,” he said.
He called on businesses, community members and well-wishers to partner with the church by contributing food and other necessities to help expand the programme and reach more vulnerable families.
As economic challenges continue to affect many households across Qwa Qwa, the church hopes its food bank initiative will provide much-needed relief while inspiring others to lend a helping hand to those in need.
