Christians Youth Development is tackling the scourge of poverty in KuGompo City by providing hot meals to more than 300 children and adults on a monthly basis.
The nonprofit organisation, founded by Elgene Christian and his wife Heidilene in 2023, was established to reduce malnutrition and hunger in the vulnerable community of Pefferville.
Through a feeding scheme held every second Saturday of the month, the NPO continues to provide nutritious, warm meals despite limited funding.
Elgene told Go! on Wednesday, he and his wife were driven by their compassion for young children and a desire to continue the legacy of his late aunt, Maggie van Zyl, founder of Isaiah 58 Children’s Home in Parkridge, which closed down a few years ago.
“The main challenge facing our communities is poverty. It is a huge problem in Pefferville.
“Many children go to bed without a warm plate of food and the misuse of social grants by some parents,” said Elgene.
He said the feeding scheme reached about 300 beneficiaries each month, and the NPO’s goal was to secure funding and donations to sustain the programme.
“[A challenge is the] logistics of going to buy goods in bulk and also the worry of keeping them fresh. But besides the health and wellness aspect of this initiative, it makes a huge difference and puts a smile on their [beneficiaries’] faces, and forms a cultural connection between us.”
The initiative was also supported by a dedicated team of volunteers who were always willing to assist, he said.
Heidilene said one of their most memorable moments was when the Buffalo City fire department joined one of the NPO’s outreach programmes.
“The excitement, the smiles on their faces when they saw this monster truck was priceless,” said Heidilene.
“There’s always been a warm and welcoming response from the community when we have our outreach.
“The kids will see me passing by and will have smiles on their faces, knowing they are in for a treat.
“They also assist with the small garden by watering it and keeping it clean.”
Elgene said the NPO hoped to expand its impact.
“This initiative is close to my heart because I lost my younger brother due to drug abuse and addiction.
“We just need funding and consistent supply of it, money doesn’t always come in on time.
“Logistics and storage, buying food in bulk and keeping it fresh and storing it safely is also a concern.
“Balancing nutrition with cost — the cheapest food isn’t always the healthiest, it’s a constant battle between filling tummies and real nutrition.”
He appealed to the public for support.
“We also need infrastructure and essentials like fuel, extra volunteers and cash donations.
“We are extremely grateful for Legacy Properties for organising a food drive and using their networks for exposure.”
To partner with Christians Youth Development, contact 078-353-4008.
