Just days away from the start of the new academic year and charity organisation Walk in Faith is hard at work rallying support for their annual stationery drive for children in need.

With a full calendar of projects designed to uplift families, empower children and restore confidence where it’s needed the most, NPO founder Merinda Ackernman said their first initiative for 2026 ensures children are equipped with educational resources for the year ahead.

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They are also raising support for the daily school lunches.

There is still a need for school shoes, bags, uniforms, socks, hard cover books, book covers and plastic covers, pens and other stationery items.

Over the years, Walk in Faith has met its target thanks to the support of generous and regular donors, but the costs continue to rise with inflation and more families in need being added to the database.

With families moving to Richards Bay for job prospects while employment is low, many fall into further financial challenges in their quest to seek work.

“We run our weekly school lunches and rely on donations of groceries. The weekly cost per child for school lunches is R150,” said Ackerman.

“We invite donors who would like to pledge their support for any of our programmes, especially the learners’ lunch meals which runs throughout the year.

“Many of our beneficiaries are from low- or no-income households and survive on grants, for many their incomes can pay only their rent and not groceries,” she said.

Pre-loved school items in good condition are also welcome. For Richards Bay, contact Merinda on 081 5382331, and Empangeni, contact Linda on 083 4170133.

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