Two Orlando East mothers who run a newly founded NPO, Reaga Sechaba Community Center aimed at distributing food meals for locals say this is what God has called them to do.
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Nomsa Walaza and Lebohang Tshabalala said the initiative was established to bring much needed relief for disadvantaged residents of the Mlamlankunzi informal settlements on the banks of Orlando East.
“I was one of the Covid19 caregivers and we were here on inspection when I realised the dire living conditions and health risks most of the families were staying under.
“Many of them are unemployed and survive on recycling or odd jobs. I knew I had to do something and that’s when I roped in Lebo,” said Walaza.
The pair has been relaying on personal funds and donations to feed over 80 children, at least twice every week. She said their objective was to merely see the kids happy and well fed.
“We give them nutritious meals and because we are in winter, we are going to be serving soup to keep them warm,” she said.
“Our aim is to make sure that every child doesn’t go to bed hungry. We want them to concentrate at school and actively participate in sports.”
The outreach which started four months ago said while they have made strides, they remained worried at the lack of resources and hoped more sponsors would come on board.
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“We have been working with RIDA, who recently donated beans that will last us throughout winter.
“We also get vegetables donated by Food Resilience SA Harvest, however it is sometimes not enough because we distribute to two informal settlements, one behind Lofentse Girls High and another nearby the former Locolwani Primary School which make up the 80 children.”
The organisation which currently focuses on the feeding scheme programme said they plan to extend their footprint to reach more communities and introduce new programmes expected to roll out in the coming months.
Walaza said that they planned to teach arts and craft and indigenous games but also provide technical skills to the children at an early age aimed at equipping them with necessary skills to sustain themselves and contribute back to the community.
Those who want to help the organisation can get in touch with Lebohang Tshabalala on 083 426 4692.
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