Champions Day Care Centre is making a lasting difference in the lives of both children and elderly residents through its growing community outreach programmes.

Founder Nontombeko Sihomo established the day care centre on January 11, 2024. The centre has shown exceptional growth in just two years.

“We started with three children, and today we have 47. God has been our strength throughout this journey,” said Nontombeko.

In 2025, she expanded the centre’s work by launching an elderly soup kitchen in Palmridge Extension 3.

The initiative has become a place where older people can enjoy a warm meal, socialise and support one another.

Earlier this year, in February, a second branch of the soup kitchen was opened in Greenfield.

The soup kitchen has 45 regular elderly members, although around 60 people are served every Tuesday.

Many of the regulars also take food home to relatives who are unable to walk to the venue.

Nontombeko said the initiative was created to provide elderly residents with a welcoming environment where they can talk, share ideas, and simply enjoy each other’s company.

“I realised that not much is being done for our elders. I wanted them to feel appreciated and loved, to let them know that we see them and that we still need them,” she said.

The group meets every Tuesday at 11:00. A resident social worker, Khosi Mtshali, generously volunteers her services free of charge. During the weekly gatherings, members enjoy educational talks, motivational sessions and activities that encourage friendship and emotional support.

The group affectionately calls one another ‘Chomie’, creating a strong sense of belonging and family. The initiative also receives support from community members.