By Gcina Ntsaluba
In a heartwarming display of community spirit, residents of Makhanda have begun rallying support for orphaned twin sisters who have been struggling since losing both parents in recent years.
The sisters cannot be named because they are minors, alongside the fear of stigmatisation.
The twins, currently in Grade 9, lost their father in 2019 and their mother in 2022, leaving them in the care of an older sister who, according to reports, has not been providing adequate support.
“The first time I met one of the twins, she asked if I wanted to be their mother,” said Ntomboxolo Matshoba, a resident from Joza location who first encountered the girls in New Street, Makhanda.
“I was shocked by the question. When I asked what was happening, they explained they had no parents, and their sister wasn’t treating them well.”
Despite not knowing the girls, Matshoba’s compassion moved her to help.
She collaborated with Samantha Grobbelaar from 9 and Three Quarters in New Street to organise toiletries and other essentials for the twins.
These young women connected with Food for Futures, a local charity organisation that agreed to provide monthly food parcels to the twins after meeting them and hearing their story.
“We don’t have much to give them ourselves, but we’re doing what we can,” explained Matshoba, working tirelessly to improve the twins’ situation.
A significant breakthrough came when Matshoba secured housing for the girls, a two-room flat with a toilet located conveniently near their school. In an extraordinary act of kindness, the property owner waived all rental fees after learning about the twins’ circumstances.
“These twins need our community’s support to have a chance at a better future,” said Matshoba. “Even small contributions can make a significant difference in their lives.”
How You Can Help
The community effort to support these vulnerable young girls continues to grow, but more assistance is needed. Residents who wish to contribute to this cause are encouraged to:
- Donate clothing, school supplies, or toiletries
- Provide mentorship or emotional support
- Contribute to food supplies or prepared meals
- Assist with transportation to school and other activities
Those interested in helping can contribute financially by using the following bank details:
First National Bank
Branch Code: 210717
Account name: Food4Futures
Account number:62901533316
Reference: Your name/Twins
