Step by Step Day Care Centre in Willowvale has become the perfect example of how community efforts and social media can come together to change lives.
After three-year-old Amzolele Ntlonyana was seriously injured during playtime at the centre, a fundraising campaign was launched and the response has been nothing short of extraordinary.
In just 20 days, more than R17,000 was raised through a BackaBuddy campaign, more than half of the R30,000 goal.
The funds will be used for several urgent needs including helping Amzolele with his recovery and rehabilitation, and covering food and supplies for him and his mother, Noluphelo, during hospital stays.
The campaign also aims to continue paying the salary of the centre’s cook, Nombekesi Masana who is in hospital receiving treatment for cancer, and to help hire temporary kitchen support in her absence. The money will also be used to support the day care’s staff and covers other operational needs.
The toddler fell off a swing back in March and broke his femur bone. The centre’s staff acted swiftly, ensuring he received urgent medical attention and remained at his side throughout his treatment and recovery.
Step by Step Day Care Centre founder Lindiwe Nani said the dedication and compassion of her team played a vital role in supporting both Amzolele and his mother.
“Our first response was to ensure that he and his mom had everything they needed, emotionally, physically, and logistically. He was discharged from Frere Hospital after three weeks. He’s full of smiles and was so excited to be out, the first thing he asked was to go to the beach. He still can’t walk on his own, needs to be supported, and often hops or scoots along the floor. He’s on medication and will need regular check-ups and physio. We have been helping them with transport and follow-up care,” she said.
Since the fundraiser was launched, the outpouring of support has been overwhelming.
Community members have stepped in with donations, groceries, airtime, and kind words showing that even in the most rural corners of the Eastern Cape, ubuntu is alive and well.
His mother, who is raising two other children, has expressed deep gratitude for the love shown by complete strangers.
Step by Step Day Care Centre, which opened its doors in 2013 in the rural village of Qora, has been a lifeline for many families in the area.
Despite its humble setting, the centre provides a nurturing, safe space for children to learn and grow
Many of the children come from low-income households, and for some, the meals provided at the centre are the only ones they will eat that day.
With three staff members and 40 children, the centre is in desperate need of resources and donations to ensure that the children receive the necessary attention they need.
The centre continues to operate under ongoing financial strain. While support from organisations like Red Cherry Adventures and occasional government contributions has kept it going, there is still a pressing need for sustainable funding and resources.
“The children, their joy, resilience, and trust remind us why this work matters. They’re our future, and they deserve every chance to thrive. I’d love to see our creche fully equipped and staffed, with nutritious meals and enough resources for all the children. One day, I’d love to offer afternoon programmes for older pupils too,” Nani said.
The centre welcomes all donations, wherever it be money, food items, store vouchers, or simply time spent volunteering. Anyone wishing to assist can contact the centre at stepbystepqora@gmail.com, WhatsApp 062-051-5911, or find them on Facebook.
