More than 1 000 warm takeaway meals were served to families and individuals facing hardship on October 16.

This follows the launch of a soup kitchen by the Tsalanang non-profit organisation (NPO) in Mamelodi East Extension 6 through its charity drive.

Tsalanang NPO representative Tshepo Ramoncha said the soup kitchen aims to restore dignity and share compassion where it is needed most.

Ramoncha said the organisation is committed to supporting vulnerable families and individuals through a Community Soup Kitchen Outreach Programme.

“The outreach was more than a food support initiative. It was an expression of Ubuntu, love, unity and the belief that every member of the community deserves dignity, compassion and care,” said Ramoncha.

The organisation managed to reach approximately 1 500 beneficiaries through its partnership with KitKat, compared with 500 beneficiaries in 2025.

Ramoncha said this growth demonstrates the importance of partnerships and collective action in addressing food insecurity and supporting vulnerable members of society.

He said community development begins when people open their hearts to one another and take responsibility for the well-being of their neighbours.

Restoring Ubuntu and supporting youth

The vision of Tsalanang is to bring Ubuntu, unity and love back into the community.

Ramoncha recognises that some households go to bed without food and that many families face daily struggles that require compassion and collective action.

He believes that when people stand together, they can build a caring community where children are protected, elderly people are respected, young people are supported and vulnerable families are not forgotten.

Tsalanang NPO states that children need love, positive role models, protection, education and encouragement alongside food. Through community outreach and volunteer programmes, it seeks to strengthen the relationships that help communities become safer, more caring and more united.

Following the community outreach, Ramoncha called upon caring and committed individuals to join Tsalanang NPO as volunteers.

He emphasised that community development requires people who are willing to stand together, open their hearts and dedicate their time and energy to serving others.

Community development initiatives

The organisation is based in Mamelodi East Ext 6 and is currently working at Pfunzo Ndi Tshedza Primary School for the back-to-school campaign, which covers books and donates school uniforms.

The organisation is also assisting drug addicts by helping them go to rehabilitation centres.

Anyone who wishes to assist with any form of donations can contact Ramoncha on 076 712 7321.

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