More Than Just a Meal

They started arriving slowly - some barefoot, some holding hands, all with bright eyes and quiet hunger. We stood there, watching our Saturday program come to life for the very first time on the ground in Maun - something we began almost a year ago.

Until now, we had only seen photos, updates, and reports. But being there in person, watching the children line up for their meal, hearing their laughter during the games, and feeling the energy - it hit differently. This was real. And it was working.

We started this feeding initiative through Small Village Botswana with a simple belief: food is the first key to change. But even that felt uncertain at the beginning.

When we first shared the idea with our incredible local partner - a deeply committed woman leading grassroots change - she admitted something to me later:

"At first, it sounded too simple. I thought we needed to begin with education or structure. But now I know - when stomachs are empty, nothing else can begin. You can't teach a child who's hungry. You can't expect focus, or joy on an empty stomach."

She was right. And now we have seen it, too.

This program now supports 45 children every week, offering more than just food — we provide:

🍲 Nutritious meals

🤝 Meaningful mentorship

👩🏾‍⚕️ A part-time social worker for emotional support

And the impact goes far beyond Saturday. Some of these kids have joined internship camps. A few are now working in local lodges — their first steps into employment and independence.

This weekend, we’re expanding again with more games and interaction — using play to build confidence, connection, and emotional growth.

Next, we’re preparing to launch:

🎯 Soft skills training to strengthen communication and teamwork

💻 Certified workshops in IT, planning, and financial literacy

🌍 Online learning during school holidays — even one or two donated laptops could change everything

Because when children are fed, supported, and seen — they don’t just get by.

They start to believe in themselves. They begin to thrive.

If you’d like to be part of this journey — by donating, offering a laptop, or sharing your skills — we’d love to hear from you.

Together, we’re not just serving meals.

We’re building futures.

Support Now