A Heartfelt Partnership: Nourishing Hope in Durban's Heart

At Big Five Foods, we believe that food is more than sustenance—it's a bridge to dignity, hope, and community. In the bustling yet often overlooked streets of Durban's CBD, where marginalised women and children face daily struggles against hunger and hardship, we've witnessed the transformative power of unity. Today, we're humbled and inspired to share our latest collaboration: a partnership with SA Harvest, PIL Shipping, and the iconic Sharks rugby team. Together, we've delivered nourishment to hundreds of vulnerable families, turning despair into possibility and reminding us all that change begins with a single act of compassion.

The Spark of Collaboration

It started with a shared vision. SA Harvest, South Africa's leading food rescue organisation, has long been at the forefront of combating food waste and insecurity. Their tireless efforts to redistribute surplus food align perfectly with our mission at Big Five Foods to make quality, nutritious meals accessible to all. When we connected with PIL Shipping—a global leader in logistics whose commitment to sustainability extends far beyond the seas—we knew we had the muscle to move mountains (or in this case, mountains of fresh produce and essentials). And then, The Sharks stepped onto the field—not for a game, but for a greater cause. As Durban's pride and a symbol of resilience, their involvement brought not just resources but a wave of community spirit, rallying fans and locals alike.

Imagine the scene: Delicious, nutritious and healthy food being supplied into the CBD, courtesy of PIL. SA Harvest's experts ensuring every item was rescued from waste and redirected to those in need. The Sharks leadership, with their larger-than-life presence, dishing-out meals alongside our team, sharing stories, and offering hugs that spoke louder than words. It wasn't just about feeding bodies; it was about feeding souls.

Touching Lives, One Meal at a Time

The impact? Profound. We served over 400 meals to women and children in a single day—mothers who had skipped meals to feed their little ones, kids whose eyes lit up at the sight of a warm, balanced plate.

In Durban's CBD, where economic disparities cast long shadows, this initiative addressed immediate hunger while planting seeds for long-term change. Through workshops led by The Sharks , we empowered women with nutrition and hope, helping foster independence. SA Harvest's zero-waste approach ensured environmental stewardship, and PIL's logistical prowess made it all seamless. Together, we didn't just provide food; we restored hope, dignity, and a sense of belonging.

A Call to Greater Good

This partnership is a testament to what happens when businesses, nonprofits, and community icons unite. At Big Five Foods, we're committed to expanding these efforts, but we can't do it alone. We invite you—our customers, partners, and fellow change-makers—to join us. Whether through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, every action counts.

As we reflect on this journey, we're reminded of Nelson Mandela's words: "There can be no greater gift than that of giving one’s time and energy to help others without expecting anything in return." In Durban, we've seen that gift multiply, touching lives and inspiring futures. Thank you to SA Harvest, PIL Shipping, and The Sharks for being our allies in this fight against hunger. Together, we're not just feeding people—we're nourishing a brighter tomorrow.

Stay tuned for more updates on our impact initiatives. Let's keep the momentum going.