Cape Town - In a country where a hearty meal can mean the difference between despair and hope, NPO Ladles of Love is stepping up with its most ambitious campaign yet: “Feed the Future.”
The initiative aims to provide two nutritious meals a day to 8,000 vulnerable children and their teachers across the country.
The organization’s founder, Danny Diliberto, described the effort as a gift of immeasurable value.
“Investing in the growth and education of small children through nutrition has to be the greatest gift of all.
“In a country where nearly half the population faces food insecurity, and 23% of children are severely undernourished, providing meals is about more than food—it’s about creating a future.”
Ladles of Love currently supports 70 pre-schools and early childhood development (ECD) centres across the Western Cape, Gauteng, and Northern Cape, feeding thousands of children five days a week.
Through "Feed the Future," they hope to expand their reach and bring even more young South Africans the nourishment they need to thrive.
At the heart of this mission are people like Andiswa Ncamiso, the dedicated principal of Little Conquerors ECD in Du Noon.
Ncamiso, who started her centre to uplift her community, said the meals provided by Ladles of Love had been transformative for both her staff and the children..
“Knowing our children are fed means they can learn and grow without the burden of hunger,” she said.
Ncamiso made reference to a child, who arrived at the centre malnourished and unable to eat solid food, who now runs around energetically and eagerly asks for second helpings of his favourite dishes.
Parents in the community also feel the difference. “My daughter never used to eat vegetables, but now she loves them and even asks for them at home,” said one mother.
Another parent beamed with pride, sharing how her twins now call spinach and peas “the goodies.”
South Africans are encouraged to join the movement.
A donation of R250 a month feeds one child with two healthy meals every weekday for a year.
Businesses can also contribute through tiered investment plans that support up to 400 children annually.
To learn more or lend a hand, visit ladlesoflove.org.za.