This Christmas, thousands of children need nutrition, not just gifts

AS FAMILIES across South Africa dive into the festive spirit of Christmas, filled with joyful gatherings and gift-giving, a shadow looms over approximately 12,000 pre-schoolers who are counting the days until they step into Grade 1. The stark reality is that many of these children will arrive unprepared, not due to a lack of potential, but due to the devastating effects of chronic malnutrition that have hindered their development. With nearly one million children gearing up for primary education in 2026, the time for action is now.

The implications of malnutrition are profound. According to UNICEF, more than 1.5 million children under five in South Africa, a staggering 25%, are stunted due to chronic undernutrition. This results in cognitive impairments, decreased physical strength, and an inability to concentrate — essential qualities for successful learning. Despite being within the critical window for brain development, South Africa's record on reducing stunting rates has remained stagnant over the last two decades.

"When most learners commenced their education at our pre-school, their physical condition was frail, and many were undernourished," says Monica November, principal of Hope of Africa Pre-school in Delft. "Academically, their progress was sluggish. However, once we implemented nutritional meals through Ladles of Love, the transformation was remarkable."

This pre-school has witnessed a profound improvement after joining the Ladles of Love's Nourish Our Children Programme. Notable gains have been recorded in weight, height, attendance, cognitive functioning, and overall confidence, helping children become truly ready for Grade 1.

The growing scale of child food poverty

As the year progresses, the extent of child food poverty in South Africa continues to rise. Nearly 23% of children live in severe food poverty, at risk of life-threatening malnutrition. As of 2022, a staggering 15,000 children were hospitalised due to severe acute malnutrition — a 33% increase in cases since 2020. The long-term repercussions are dire; stunted children often begin school with developmental delays and face a higher likelihood of underachieving academically and experiencing unemployment in adulthood.

A glimmer of hope emerges through early learning programmes that provide daily meals. Research indicates that children enrolled in such initiatives have remarkably lower stunting rates (5.7%) compared to the broader population (15.6%), highlighting the programmes as vital conduits for nutritional support, and thereby enhancing cognitive functions and school readiness.

"The difference between a child who is ready for Grade 1 and one who isn't often comes down to something as simple - yet vital - as a meal," states Yolanda Jones, programme manager at Ladles of Love. "School readiness isn’t about new uniforms or backpacks – it’s about whether a child's brain has been nourished to support focus, memory, and healthy growth.”

It's Christmastime: The campaign that changes futures

This festive season, Ladles of Love is launching an urgent campaign, "It's Christmastime: Ready for Grade 1," aimed at fostering sustainable funding for 12,000 children in need, encompassing both those already enrolled in their programme and those eagerly awaiting help.

"At present, we’re supporting 9,000 children daily but face impending budget shortfalls," warns Danny Diliberto, founder of Ladles of Love. "An additional 3,000 more children are at imminent risk of missing out on nutritional support needed for their smooth transition to Grade 1."

In an innovative approach, the charity not only feeds the children but also their teachers, acknowledging that many educators in under-resourced schools face food insecurity. Nourished teachers show increased focus and resilience, allowing for a more conducive learning environment. As Jones explains, successfully feeding educators can lead to classrooms that are calmer, more engaged, and ultimately more productive.

How you can help

The urgency is palpable, with six weeks remaining before the commencement of the new school year. Ladles of Love aims to expand its support, needing to bolster monthly donors from 625 to 1,375 and corporate partners from 35 to 100. Individual donors are invited to contribute R300 per month to ensure a child receives two nutritious meals daily throughout 2026, directly impacting their educational journey.

"This Christmas, we’re urging South Africans to look beyond wrapped presents and give the true gift of life-changing nourishment — a fair start for every child who deserves the chance to thrive," appeals Diliberto. "With every child you feed, you help secure a brighter future for all our children.”

As the holiday season approaches, we can act decisively to provide not just presents under the tree but the gift of essential nutrition that can set the foundation for a brighter future. Together, we can ensure that every child steps into their classroom ready to learn and thrive.