Outside the Bowl Africa has announced the launch of its ‘Million Meals in 5 Days’ campaign, that officially started this week, Cape {town} Etc reports.
A non-profit organisation (NPO) based in Paarl, this campaign aims to provide ‘one million nutritious meals within a five-day window’, as the name suggests.
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‘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,’ said Loren Erasmus, Outside the Bowl Africa executive director.
‘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,’ Erasmus added.
The campaign will feature VitaKidz and Maxi Blend Amazing Meals, both of which are specially designed to meet the nutritional needs and standards of developing children.
‘VitaKidz is a fortified maize product packed with essential vitamins, while Maxi Blend offers a balanced mix of proteins, carbohydrates and nutrients,’ said Erasmus.
‘These meals are vital in fighting malnutrition and supporting the physical and cognitive development of children,’ Erasmus added.
In order to reach the goal of providing one million meals in the span of five days, the campaign will employ a multi-faceted approach that includes community engagement, partnerships and social media outreach.
‘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,’ said Erasmus.
The campaign aims to raise R2.5 million to cover the costs of sourcing ingredients, production, and distribution, and once funds have been secured, the NPO’s production team will prepare the VitaKidz and Maxi Blend meals.
These meals will be packaged and distributed through a coordinated network of community organisations, schools and volunteers.
Individuals and organisations can support the campaign through monetary donations and volunteering their time by helping to spread awareness and organising local fundraising events.
‘Every bit of support helps us reach more children in need,’ Erasmus emphasised.
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,’ said Erasmus.
‘By providing these meals, we aim to give children the energy and nutrients they need to succeed in school and in life,’ Erasmus added.
The campaign will place a 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,’ said Erasmus.
‘These areas have been carefully selected based on need and our ability to deliver effectively,’ Erasmus added.
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Picture: Supplied