Community Heroes Tackle Child Hunger in Free State

In Nyakallong, Free State, the We Care Daycare centre has stepped up to fill a crucial gap left by school meal programs during the holidays. As government-funded feeding initiatives halt when schools close, local caregivers are dedicated to ensuring that children continue to receive nutritious meals.

Founded in 2001 to assist families affected by HIV and other vulnerabilities, We Care provides meals for up to 200 children daily during the school break. Rebecca Ndaba, one of the center's seven caregivers, emphasized the importance of their mission. “Because of high unemployment in Nyakallong, many families struggle to provide even one meal a day,” she stated.

During the academic year, students at SA Mokgothu Primary School benefit from the National School Nutrition Programme, which delivers essential meals to support their learning and overall well-being. However, when the school year ends, children lose access to this vital resource. Mantoa Mthombeni, a teacher and coordinator for the School-Based Support Team, noted, “A hungry child cannot concentrate,” highlighting the importance of consistent nourishment for educational success.

We Care not only serves students from SA Mokgothu but also extends its support to children from other local schools, like Dihwai and Tshireletso Primary Schools. Ndaba mentioned that while they can feed over 200 learners, attendance varies as some children visit relatives during the break.

The center receives funding from the Free State Department of Social Development, which recognizes the significant role of community organizations in addressing hunger. Annah Lekgetho, one of the caregivers, shared that the center offers diverse meals year-round, including rice with chicken, pap and beans, and even snacks and fruit for children after school.

For many families in Nyakallong, these meals alleviate some of the food insecurity they face. Masabata Mofokeng, a parent and member of the School Governing Body, recounted how We Care helped a mother whose son shared his meal with her during tough times. “When schools close, most parents worry about food. But here at We Care, children get a plate and they also learn,” she remarked.

The area has been severely impacted by unemployment, with many families depending on social grants or casual labor to survive. Ndaba noted the shift from a community once thriving on mining jobs to one where food insecurity is prevalent.

Source: www.dailymaverick.co.za