Resident gives back after health scare

Making a change in someone’s life, need not be a big thing. Doing something small can sometimes mean more. Stephan Ferreira is the founder of Charity Begins With Me a blog and Facebook page that is used as a platform to create awareness and spread some kindness.

Ferreira said that he began to donate cat and dog food in 2011 that he collected from his friends and family. “After I was diagnosed with leukaemia in 2013, I decided to really get my hands dirty,” said Ferreira. He explained that Charity Begins With Me is not only associated with one specific charity organisation, but they try to do as much as they can and help as many charities as possible. He said that he tries to take on a new project every month as people get tired of one charity for too long. “We donate everything from teddies, canned food, clothes and even Easter eggs,” said Ferreira.

“People can do small things to make a difference, so many people want to help, but they don’t know where to begin. I will even go to a person’s home and pick up a donation if they want me to,” said Ferreira who is a project coordinator at the University of Johannesburg. He said that even though their are so many people in South Africa that need help, people must still stick together as a community to make a difference. “One would never be able to change the entire world, but by doing something small you can help,” he added.

Ferreira said that he prefers it if people do not give him money to help people in need. “We are not a registered non-profit organisation, so I cannot show people where their money went. Even if you donate a can of food or a fridge, I will place it where it is most needed,” said Ferreira. His newest project is Bags of Love. “We pack bags for animals, babies and the elderly to provide a little love for people on Valentine’s day,” said Ferreira.

Related articles:

Christmas wishlist for Colby’s Charity Organisation 

Details: Stephan Ferreira, 072 593 3866.