Diner’s Club changing lives one meal at a time

The Diner's Club, a new charity, is on a mission to change the lives of vulnerable children in the far south.

With the slogan "dining with a purpose", the organisation invites people to join the club at no cost and have a monthly three-course meal at participating restaurants.

Its co-founder, Diona Kindo, of Ocean View, said the club had members from Simon’s Town, Capri, Fish Hoek, Masiphumelele, and Red Hill who had done community outreach work for many years.

“It just made sense to put our heads together and help more people, especially vulnerable children and the youth.”

Once a month, partner restaurants will provide a set menu for a three-course meal for club members with the proceeds supporting the charity’s beneficiaries and a portion going to the restaurant.

“It is a win-win situation for the charity and the restaurants as both benefit from the event,” she said, adding that it was a chance make new friends, share ideas and get involved in your community.

Ms Kindo’s partner and co-founder of the club, Monika du Sautoy, has been managing the St Francis Outreach Trust for two foster homes in Masiphumelele for about 15 years.

“I thought it was a great idea and a different way to fund-raise while having fun instead of just holding your hand out,” she said, adding that there had been a “wonderful” response from the restaurants they had approached.

The club has four beneficiaries: the Ocean View crèches, Preparing for the Future and Little Warriors; The Vigis Home of Hope (VHOH) Ocean View Cadets; and the St Francis Outreach Trust.

Ms Kindo said the charity planned to add more beneficiaries but currently supported about 130 children.

“We need your help so we can provide essential resources such as proper nutrition, clothing, transport, education, hygiene needs, and shelter to these children,” she said.

The charity will hold a karaoke night fund-raiser at the Bushpub & Grill, at 27 Lekkerwater Road, on Friday July 26, at 8pm. Entry is R50 a person. Its first “dining with a purpose” event will take place on Thursday August 29 at the Cattle Baron in Harbour Bay Mall. The cost is R200 a person. Email info@thedinersclub.co.za to book and look for the club on Facebook for more information.