MEAL PROGRAM - KIDS IN MAUN
45 children between the ages of four and seventeen took part in the program, specifically 25 girls and 20 boys. The children come from difficult family backgrounds and unfortunately receive little or no food at home. During the week they are fed once a day by the school, but unfortunately this means that at weekends the children's meals are not organised. This leads to a hopeless situation and unfortunately results in children acting desperate. Mostly, the girls end up in a vulnerable situation where they will do a lot for food.
The children and adolescents come from various age groups and thus need different levels of support. Diversity is also important in this aspect – especially girls need to be shown possibilities in this patriarchal environment.
​
Official start: Saturday, 11 May 2024, with the first meal
​
Goal: Provide nutritious meals and create a conducive environment for social interaction and personal development, which currently takes place every Saturday.
​
Main components:
-
Food distribution
-
Children's games
-
Conversations / needs analysis
The children and teenagers took part in local and cultural games that encouraged teamwork, creativity and physical activity, all of which contribute to a holistic development. Participants enjoyed lunch together and then listened to inspiring stories and motivational talks. The dedicated team on site contributed significantly to the success of the program. Representatives from the Lodges of Botswana, who are also supporters, offered to invite three young people to an internship in their company. Another supporter from the IT sector showed interest in offering the children IT training. The team is planning follow-up meetings with local supporters to determine the scope of the training and support measures for the children. In addition, the food program will be expanded to include more educational and training opportunities, which will require continued financial and voluntary support.
A holistic approach is also important to us in this project and we are therefore developing a program with the local social worker in order to outline to the parents their responsibilities, have them understand the needs and problems and as a result build a safe and good home for the children.
The children and adolescents are currently supported with food and mental support every Saturday and, depending on donations, we will certainly also offer the programme on Sundays. Thanks to your help, we have been able to support the children's physical, mental and personal development, create new opportunities for education and promote social interaction and a positive, supportive community.
Your commitment makes a huge difference! Let's continue to fight together for a better and fairer future for children in Maun, Botswana.