21/10/2026
Please help this lady to help others.
Earlier today, My City Bloemfontein conducted an impromptu interview with Hadassah Evance Phiri, the woman behind the Regenerate Outreach Network page - known across the city for her colourful clown suit, street-corner collections and outreach work. “I have a calling for children, women, the less privileged, those shunned in society, a calling to aid in their dignity” she says, “..God gave me that passion, the heart to stand in the gap for them.”
Phiri cooks for homeless people, distributes clothing, supports those waiting beside Bloemfontein's roads for work and collects sanitary pads for schoolgirls, with Unity Primary School in Mafora Phase 2 among the schools she plans to assist. “..I feed them. I collect clothes on their behalf,” she says, “..I’m here to take back that dignity for the girl child.” She adds that donors should be able to see where their contributions go.
Now 54, Phiri says that this work became a serious commitment when she turned 50, after many years of giving food and assistance informally to people she encountered all around Bloemfontein. “It was like my golden year. I said, ‘I want to do something for the Lord,’” - the Regenerate Outreach Network now operates as a registered NPC, and Phiri describes herself as its visionary, supported by others including her husband and people who help with cooking and transport.
Phiri moves between intersections and feeding points according to where she feels she is being led, so residents may encounter her in different parts of Bloemfontein rather than at one permanent location. “I’m the only clown in Bloemfontein,” she says, though a woman named Mariska will accompany her in a second clown suit tomorrow. Donations can include money, clothes, food, sanitary pads and even drinking water. “Even water,” Phiri says. “Sometimes when it’s hot, I might need some water.” Those interested in helping her make a real difference can reach out to 084 542 5330 or to 064 776 6158.
