Mr SA 2010 Semi-Finalist Helgard Marais assist mission workers in Alexandra Township

Mr. South Africa 2010 Johannesburg semi-finalist, Helgard Marais was invited to assist during a charity drive hosted by the Orthodox Church mission workers, in Alexandra Township where he helped distributing food, clothes, toys, books etc to very needy residents and children.

This monthly event, which is organized by Maria Dzerefos from Pan-Hellenic Voice Radio station and her sister Paula Flack-Davison was made possible by donations received from the Bread Basket, Glen Shopping Centre and private donations from hundreds of Pan-Hellenic Voice listeners.

“It was my first time in Alexandra and was overwhelmed by the residence welcome and hospitality.” “I was touched by the gratitude these people showed for things most of us take for granted each day, realizing what a huge difference a piece of bread, clothing, baby clothing, toys for the small children and books for the teenagers, made in their lives” Marais said.

We were assisted by Liz Phehenyiani, an Alexandra resident who quickly spread the word of our presence and had a remarkable kind manner managing the crowds.

“A lot of us like to get involved in causes like this but simply don’t have the time. Today I realized one does not have to dedicate time but with a simple act of a donation of clothing, food or a toy we all can assist these mission workers to continue to make the lives of underprivileged people as those I met today a little brighter.” Helgard said.