Children from Extension 4 went home with big smiles on their faces as they took home a warm hearty meal provided by fellow community members on Monday, 10 August.
Thembisile Tekani, a community activist, and Thapelo Mlangeni from Marikana hosted the feeding scheme initiative that provides meals for underprivileged children in Extension 4 and surrounding areas.
Tekani, Mlangeni and other community members noticed the number of children in Marikana, Extension 4 and surrounding areas who were not eating, especially during the lockdown. Some relied on the school nutrition programme (school feeding schemes). So, the group decided to start the feeding scheme initiative.
The initiative is self-funded but was kick-started with the help of donors. The feeding scheme operates in different sections to reach as many children as possible.
Tekani says the main objectives are to ensure that children in several sections have a warm plate of food since some may not have food at home or may only eat one meal a day, and also to put a smile on children’s faces. “Making a difference in a child’s life and putting a smile on their faces brings us joy,” said Tekani.
Catherine Samelo (49), a resident of Extension 4, was thrilled and expressed her gratitude for the feeding scheme initiative. She says she appreciates the selfless efforts of all those involved in providing food for the children.
Lizzet Chacatt (29) also resides in Extension 4 and expressed her gratitude for the initiative. She said the members are doing a lot in helping the children, as some of them would have gone to bed on an empty stomach.
Tekani hopes this will be a long- term initiative that will last even after the pandemic.
He thanks all those who have contributed.
For more information or if you would like to donate food, please contact Tekani at 073 470 6080 or Mlangeni at 071 038 3428.
