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Our fifth heartfelt story is brought to you from Ladles of Love team members – HR Manager Nia Daniel and Shanaaz Samuels who is personal assistant to Danny, our founder. They were invited to share their story that brings our Nourish Our Children program to life.

Whilst they came back with heavy hearts because of the injustices of poverty and hunger, they too saw the joy food brings to little ones, whose families are battling financially every day.  Shanaaz scribed the story:

“As we drove through the streets of Delft, the stark contrast between the privileged neighbourhoods we come from and the poverty-stricken reality of Delft was evident. The dilapidated roads, cows grazing freely on the streets, and children playing in the dirt painted a picture of hardship.

At Khula Educare, we were warmly welcomed by Zodidi Mpangeleni, the principal, and her three teachers/carers. Despite the challenging circumstances, Zodidi’s passion and dedication to caring for 40 vulnerable children were inspiring. The Early Childhood Development centre, with its limited resources, provides a vital lifeline for these children, many of whom come from homes where food is scarce.

Zodidi shared her personal story, revealing the immense challenges she has faced, including the recent loss of her husband. Her resilience and commitment to serving her community were truly admirable.

“Ladles of Love has been a lifesaver for us” Zodidi said. “The meals they provide are not just food; they are a symbol of hope and support for these children.”

The sight of poverty, especially when it affects children, is a heavy burden on my heart. It’s a stark reminder of the inequality that exists in our world. Witnessing these children struggling to access basic necessities like nutritious food fills me with a deep sense of sadness and injustice.

Ladles of Love is proud to support Khula Educare and provide essential foods to these children. The two meals served daily are a lifeline for many, ensuring they have a nutritious start to their day.

Zodidi’s unwavering commitment to her community is an inspiration. Her dedication to providing these children with a safe and nurturing environment is a testament to the power of human kindness.

As I reflect on this experience, I am reminded of the urgent need for change. We must work together to address poverty and ensure that all children have access to the basic necessities they need to thrive.”

What Shanaaz does not share with us is how both she and Nia rolled up their sleeves and got involved by helping the teachers serve lunch and chatting and playing with the children.  As mothers, they connected with these little ones, and it is this maternal instinct of worrying that they are going to get the best shot in life in the face of such adversity, that left them with heavy hearts.

To our 500 monthly givers who support children with two meals a day, we say thank you, you have no idea the difference you are making.  

If you are wondering how to help, could you consider committing to sponsoring daily nutrition for a child at R250 per month as we have over 6,000 children in our programme. Click here or on the banner below.

With abundant blessings and gratitude,
Danny and the team at Ladles of love ❤️

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