TSHILULU – The ever-shining light of Mirror continues to give hope to destitute members of the community who regard the newspaper as their only hope for better life. A fortnight ago, we published a story about the destitute four children of the Phaduli family, whose mother Joyce, died of suspected food poisoning last month.

Aaron (25), Thinandavha (22), Rofhiwa (16) and Phalanndwa (12) had no one to rely upon after their mother’s unexpected death. All the children, except Aaron are still at school and their school fees were not fully paid.

Shortly after the publication of the article, our phones never stopped ringing because the story touched many readers who were prepared to assist the family. A well-known Tax Consultant and Investment Broker Atul Dave of Makhado, did not waste time after reading the touching article. He immediately called Mirror to organize the handing over of two boxes full of groceries to the family.

He donated amongst others, maize meal, cooking oil, butter, canned fish and beans, sugar, soup, bread, eggs, fruits soap and meat. “The article was so touching that I decided to do something for the poor children. I understand that their mother was unemployed, but she could at least bring something home. I am always there for assistance whenever the need arises.”

After reading the same report, local philanthropist, Amie Chhaya called Mirror to offer his assistance to the family. He donated eight warm blankets, four bags of maize meal, four mattresses and eight warm jackets. “It is very sad to learn that there are still people who are living in poverty. The story about the four children is one of the worst heartbreaking reports I have ever read in the Mirror. The poorest of the poor need our assistance to carry on with life and that is why I extended my helping hand to the family. The children are free to contact me and I will always be available to assist them.”

The joint handing over of the donations took place at Tshilulu, near Khubvi on Thursday last week. On behalf of the family, Thinandavha did not have enough words to appreciate the generosity of the donors and the role played by Mirror in their lives. “Words cannot fully express our gratitude to the donors, but we are happy because we know the community cares about us out there. Thanks a million times to Mirror for highlighting our plight. I encourage other community members to use the paper, because it is the only voice for the voiceless.”