CINDY KREE
Working together with other faith groups – representatives of the Mormon Church, members of Bet David Shul, and other community members – the UJW brought light and laughter to families across many communities.
In keeping with the theme of Chanukah, the Festival of Lights, the project focused on bringing lights to families living in squatter camps in and around Johannesburg – the thousands who live in abject poverty in informal settlements.
These families have no access to electricity, no lights, no heating, and are forced to rely on paraffin lamps which, while being fairly ineffective, are at the same time frighteningly dangerous and have resulted in tragedies too numerous to mention.
The project began on November 22, when 150 solar lights were distributed to some of the most indigent families gathered at the Assemblies of G-d Church in Katlehong. The UJW was joined by a group of volunteers, including a prospective bride and groom and their retinue, who involved themselves in this project as part of the build-up to their wedding day.
On November 24 the UJW, together with members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, joined hands and distributed 60 lights to the Alexandra Aids Orphans Project. This was a very special day for all those involved, allowing volunteers to bear witness to the incredible difference a light can make to those in need.
The final part of the project took place on December 1. The UJW, working with and through outreach organisation Afrika Tikkun, distributed 200 lights to excited recipients in Orange Farm.
The remaining lights will be distributed in February through the auspices of the South African Friends of Israel (SAFI).
