A community-based organisation in Promiseland informal settlement, Palm Ridge, has issued an urgent appeal for support as the number of children in need of food, care and educational assistance continues to rise sharply.

Ikhaya Lethu (Our home), a registered NPO founded and led by Nonkululeko Mda, says it is struggling to keep up with weekly demand for meals and early childhood development (ECD) support due to limited funding and increasing hardship in the community.

The organisation feeds vulnerable children every Saturday and runs after-school programmes that assist learners with homework and provide a safe space during the afternoon hours.

According to Mda, the level of need in Promiseland has escalated significantly over the past year, driven by social challenges affecting many parents and caregivers in the settlement.

“We see the impact daily. Children arrive hungry, some without proper clothing, and many need emotional and educational support. We do as much as we can, but the demand now outweighs our resources,” she said.

Ikhaya Lethu’s work began long before its formal registration.

Mda previously operated a soup kitchen every Wednesday in Rondebult, but her relocation to Promise Land exposed her to even deeper levels of poverty.

What started as a once-a-week feeding initiative has since expanded into a multi-service community programme that includes meals, ECD activities and homework assistance.

However, the organisation now faces severe shortages.

Food supplies are running low, the cooking gas cylinder is no longer sufficient for the growing numbers, and the organisation lacks enough educational materials, toys, and clothing for the children it serves.

Without urgent support, Mda fears they may be forced to scale down services that many families have come to rely on.

“We have reached a point where we cannot meet the need alone. We are appealing to businesses, residents and community partners to step forward. Any contribution of food, clothing, funding or sponsorship will directly impact a child who depends on us,” Mda said.

Ikhaya Lethu has become a critical safety net in Promiseland, particularly for children who face hunger, family instability and limited access to formal early education.

Local leaders have echoed the organisation’s call for assistance, urging companies and donors to support grassroots initiatives that operate on the frontline of poverty.

Ikhaya Lethu has invited anyone interested in partnering or donating to contact them on 071 931 1897 or mdanonkululeko424@gmail.com

As the cost of living rises and vulnerable households face growing pressure, organisations like Ikhaya Lethu say community collaboration is essential to prevent children from falling through the cracks.