SOUTH AFRICA – Marriott International has partnered with FoodForward SA (FFSA) to fight hunger in South Africa on World Food Day. 

With over 30 million South Africans facing food insecurity daily, this collaboration aimed to make a significant impact. 

Over 50 volunteers from 17 Marriott hotels joined FFSA’s “Fill the Gap” campaign, packing 450 pallets of food, equal to 1.8 million meals, for vulnerable communities nationwide.

Marriott employees actively supported FFSA’s mission by sorting and packaging essential foods such as rice, maize meal, and peanut butter. 

This effort aligned with the World Food Day theme, “The Right to Food for a Better Life and a Better Future.” It emphasised reducing food waste while ensuring access to nutritious meals.

Food insecurity is one of South Africa’s most urgent challenges, and by collaborating with FoodForward SA, we were able to help bridge that gap,” said Johann Nortje, Chairperson of Marriott’s Southern Africa Business Council. 

“For Marriott, serving our world is a core value, and initiatives like this demonstrate the powerful impact we can make when we unite for a cause.”

Volunteers from various Marriott brands, including Protea Hotels by Marriott, Marriott Hotels, The Westin, AC by Marriott, Protea Hotel Fire & Ice! by Marriott, and Autograph Collection, participated in events across Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban. These efforts showcased Marriott’s dedication to supporting local communities.

Chefs and trainee chefs participated in cook-offs in these cities as well, demonstrating how nutritious and tasty meals can be created using the same ingredients distributed to communities. 

This hands-on cooking experience not only showcased culinary skills but also raised awareness about food insecurity, Marriott says.

Marriott International concludes that this initiative forms part of the brand’s broader global commitment to sustainability and community impact. It supports local efforts to tackle food insecurity and promote food systems that leave no one behind.

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