FEEDING one hungry child at a time is the idea behind the Adopt a Kid campaign launched by local Evangelist, Joubin Saffier, in Humansdorp.
He established the Kouga Social and Rural Development, a non-profit organisation, during May, this year, when the need for basic foodstuffs came to his attention at the various homes where he preached.
In a bid to help those in need, Saffier generated funds from family and friends and his own pocket, to distribute food parcels in Arcadia, Kruisfontein, Jeugkamp, Nuwe Uitbreiding 319, Donkerhoek and Hangenheim.
Saffier says that the NPO provides “emergency food parcels” to households where there is dire need with no income. “We also supply families with electricity vouchers, clothing and blankets, while providing meals to approximately 259 children at various food points two to three times a week.
The influx of children at the food delivery points prompted the NPO to establish the Adopt a Kid campaign earlier this month, as they were unable to provide for all the children due to financial difficulties.
“The need in our community is huge and continues to grow. We had to find an alternative in order to provide for our kids,” says Saffier.
Those, who ‘adopt’ a child in the programme, are requested to donate at least R100 a month to ensure that one child receives four decent meals each month.
Since the campaign was launched, at least seven people have “adopted” a child.
Saffier says the children who are a part of the campaign, are in need of food, clothing and shoes. “They need help for a better future.”
Owing to the lack the children are experiencing, the one meal they receive at the food distribution points does not always take the hunger away. The food also has to be distributed evenly among the children.
Saffier feels that the Adopt a Kid campaign will ensure that children receive a nutritious plate of food, which will keep them sated for longer.
“Many of the children in our community are dependent on the meals we serve. Before we depart, they ask when the next food distribution will take place.”
Since the NPO is newly established, Saffier hopes to receive more donations and guidance in the right direction to achieve their vision to provide for the children in their community.
“Anything that can make it easier for us, would be a great help. We are young and inexperienced in this field, but we want to provide for those in need.”
For more info contact Joubin Saffier at 078 125 4357.
