South African non-profit organization, Outside the Bowl Africa (OTB Africa), recently held a successful outreach event at the Mickey Mouse Early Childhood Development (ECD) centre in Paarl, showcasing its ongoing commitment to providing nutritious meals to needy children. This special event, made possible through a partnership with Feed the Nation Foundation and Pick n Pay, distributed healthy snacks and joy-filled gifts to the children, sparking excitement for OTB Africa’s ambitious Million Meals Campaign.
The event celebrated the importance of community and partnerships. Each child at Mickey Mouse ECD received a package that included a VitaKidz cookie, VitaKidz porridge, a joy bracelet, and a Maxi Blend Amazing Meals pack. It was a heartwarming occasion that highlighted OTB Africa’s dedication to making nutritious support more accessible to South Africa’s most vulnerable children.
OTB Africa is inviting the public to join its current Million Meals Campaign – which runs into the first week of December – aiming to make a difference this Christmas season in South Africa. This vital initiative aims to provide one million meals to vulnerable children across South Africa, including Paarl, Stellenbosch, Cape Town, and other communities in need such as Durban, Johannesburg, and Port Elizabeth.
Be Part of the Million Meals Campaign – and Win a Car!
For just R150, you can feed 20 children and make a direct impact. Every R150 contribution also qualifies donors for a chance to win a 2024 Suzuki Swift GL AMT, proudly assisted by Suzuki PAARL, making each donation a powerful opportunity to change lives and potentially drive away with a new car.
Loren Erasmus, Executive Director at Outside the Bowl Global, shares the vision behind the campaign: “Partnerships form the cornerstone of any successful venture, and we are thrilled to expand our efforts to nourish and uplift communities on a national scale. Through collaboration with Feed the Nation Foundation and support from our donors, we are setting the stage to ensure that no child goes hungry.”
With every donation, OTB Africa moves closer to its goal of reaching one million meals—a milestone that would have a transformative impact on the lives of children who rely on these meals for essential nutrition. “It’s about creating moments that matter and building a future where all children have the nourishment they need to thrive,” says Erasmus.
Get Involved
Loren Erasmus, Executive Director at Outside the Bowl Africa, explained the motivation behind this campaign, stating, “The Million Meals in 5 Days campaign is inspired by the tremendous success of last year’s One Million Meals initiative. The remarkable support we received underscored the urgent need to address food insecurity among vulnerable children. With many families still facing economic challenges, it’s crucial now more than ever to provide these children with the nutritious meals they need to thrive. This campaign is not just about feeding children; it’s about building a foundation for a healthier and brighter future.”
The campaign will feature VitaKidz and Maxi Blend Amazing Meals, both specially designed to meet the nutritional needs of growing children. “VitaKidz is a fortified maize product packed with essential vitamins, while Maxi Blend offers a balanced mix of proteins, carbohydrates, and nutrients,” Erasmus said. “These meals are vital in fighting malnutrition and supporting the physical and cognitive development of children.”
To reach the goal of providing one million meals in just five days, the campaign will employ a multi-faceted approach, including community engagement, partnerships, and social media outreach. Erasmus noted, “We are mobilizing volunteers, working with schools, businesses, and faith-based organizations, and using our extensive distribution network to ensure that the meals reach those who need them most. Every donation, no matter the size, contributes directly to achieving this ambitious goal.”
The campaign aims to raise R2,5 million to cover the costs of sourcing ingredients, production, and distribution. Once funds are secured, our production team will prepare the VitaKidz and Maxi Blend meals, which will be packaged and distributed through a coordinated network of community organizations, schools, and volunteers.
Individuals and organizations can support the campaign not only through monetary donations but also by volunteering their time, helping to spread awareness, and organizing local fundraising events. Erasmus emphasized, “Every bit of support helps us reach more children in need.”
The impact of the campaign is expected to be significant. “We hope these meals will provide immediate relief and contribute to the long-term health and development of children. Proper nutrition is essential for a child’s growth, learning, and overall well-being,” Erasmus added. “By providing these meals, we aim to give children the energy and nutrients they need to succeed in school and in life.”
The campaign will focus on underserved areas across South Africa, including the Western Cape, Eastern Cape, Northern Cape, and Gauteng. “Our goal is to reach communities where the need is greatest,” Erasmus said. “These areas have been carefully selected based on need and our ability to deliver effectively.”
Outside the Bowl Africa is grateful for the support of various community organizations, faith-based groups, and corporate partners. Erasmus highlighted, “Their involvement is crucial in amplifying our reach and ensuring the success of this campaign.”
The success of the campaign will be measured by the number of meals provided and the positive impact on the communities served. Feedback from recipients and partners will be used to assess the campaign’s effectiveness.
To support the Million Meals Campaign, visit africaotb.org to donate, learn more, and enter for a chance to win. By participating, you’re helping make a difference in the lives of children across South Africa and moving us closer to a world without hunger.
Outside the Bowl Africa Links:
Website: https://africaotb.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/outsidethebowlafrica
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/outsidethebowlfeeding/
MORE ABOUT OUTSIDE THE BOWL AFRICA
Outside the Bowl Africa, founded by Mark Maingard and Marais Greyling in 2016, is dedicated to providing nourishment and hope to communities in need. Their mission began with renovating a derelict facility in Paarl, South Africa, and delivering meals to Magda’s Soup Kitchen. Since then, they’ve evolved into a transformative force, partnering with the Community of Abundance and OTB Global to feed 500,000 people daily, not just with food, but with spiritual nourishment.
Operating three food manufacturing facilities in Wellington, South Africa, Outside the Bowl Africa serves a wide range of organizations, including ECD centers, soup kitchens, faith-based groups, and government institutions. Through strategic partnerships with major food corporations, they procure essential services at reasonable prices, ensuring efficient distribution to needy communities across Africa and beyond.
Outside the Bowl Africa’s impact extends beyond providing meals; they’re committed to building kitchens in communities throughout Southern Africa, addressing hunger and fostering empowerment. Their vision continues to inspire hope and transformation, one meal at a time.
