For many of the children who arrive at SOS Children's Villages across the country, food insecurity and constant hunger is a fact of life, says the organisation.

The SOS Drop-in and Social Centres play a vital role in their communities in addressing hunger and food insecurity. Located in different provinces, they provide safe spaces where children can access nutritious meals, ensuring that they do not go to school hungry. The centres also enable children to take food home for supper, which significantly alleviates the burden on their families, adds the organisation.

This support helps bridge the gap caused by economic hardship and ensures that these children can attend school consistently without the distraction of hunger. At SOS Drop-in Centres, more than 700 000 meals are served each year. At these Drop-in Centres, together with the SOS Children's Villages where alternative care is provided, more than one million meals are served each year to children and young people, says the organisation.

"I am proud to highlight the profound impact of our initiatives on the lives of the children and young people we serve. Currently, over 700 children and young people in this location benefit from our feeding and nutrition programme, most of whom come from households with limited income. Many of these families rely solely on government social grants, which are often insufficient to meet their basic needs," says Peter Kotlolo, Programme Director at SOS Children's Villages Sekhukhune Social Centre.

Behind every meal served is a story of kindness from community members, donors and volunteers who dedicate themselves to ensuring that children do not go to bed hungry, adds the organisation.

Their compassion turns these feeding programmes into a lifeline, transforming tears into smiles and despair into determination. Parents express gratitude knowing their children are cared for, and the community grows closer through this shared mission, says the organisation.

Donors like KFC ADD HOPE and supporters of SOS make this possible through their continued support of the nutrition and feeding programmes nationwide, adds the organisation.

"I extend my heartfelt appreciation to all stakeholders, partners, and staff who contribute to this programme. Together, we are creating a nurturing environment for vulnerable children, which promotes their well-being, education, and prospects," concludes Kotlolo.

For more information, visit www.sossouthafrica.org.za. You can also follow SOS Children's Villages South Africa on Facebook, LinkedIn, or on X.

*Image courtesy of contributor