Heartbreaking story of KZN graduate and mom of three begging for food moves South Africans
The story of a BA degree holder who stands on the side of the road begging for food to feed her three children has shone a spotlight on unemployment, poverty and the spirit of Ubuntu.
South Africa continues to battle one of the highest unemployment rates in the world, and having a qualification does not always guarantee a job.
Just last month, a young graduate went viral after standing at traffic lights holding up his qualifications in the hope of finding employment. Now, another heartbreaking story is making the rounds on social media.
A 48-year-old KwaZulu-Natal mother of three has been forced to stand at traffic lights asking motorists for food after being unemployed for around 18 months.
The story, shared by Pay It Forward, revealed that despite trying everything to find work, the woman has been unable to secure employment.
“We have a mother of three children, unemployed and has been for around 18 months. And not for a lack of trying everything,” the post reads.
According to the post, she does not ask for money but simply hopes someone will give her food for herself and her children.
"She has a cardboard sign. She asks only for food. Not money, not a fur coat, not a car. Just food."
Sadly, the post also highlights some of the inhumane treatment she has experienced. At times, food is thrown at her from car windows, while on other occasions she receives food that has already gone mouldy. She reportedly cuts away the mould and toasts what remains so that her family has something to eat.
"There are times, such as today, when what you see in the images, are given to her. Then she cuts as much of the mould away and toasts the remainder. And she and the children eat."
What makes the story even more heartbreaking is that she graduated cum laude in 2006 with a BA degree, majoring in criminology and psychology.
Her story is a painful reminder that many qualified South Africans continue to struggle to find employment despite years of hard work and education.
Pay It Forward shared her story not only to raise awareness of her situation but also to remind South Africans of the spirit of Ubuntu.
Kindness can make a difference
As South Africans continues to celebrate Mandela Month, this story serves as a reminder that compassion costs nothing.
One of the most important aspects of giving is the attitude of the heart. The golden rule remains: treat others as you would like to be treated. Choosing to helps others should come done with kindness.
Sometimes, offering a smile, a kind word or sharing a meal can restore a sense of hope. Whatever form generosity takes, it should always be rooted in compassion, respect and the recognition that every person deserves to be treated with dignity.
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