top of page
Search

66 Years of Combating Child Hunger: The Story of Peninsula School Feeding Association

Writer's picture: Peninsula School Feeding Association (PFSA)Peninsula School Feeding Association (PFSA)
2 days ago3 min read

By Peninsula School Feeding Association (PFSA)



The Peninsula School Feeding Association (PSFA) has been a cornerstone in the fight against child hunger in the Western Cape for 66 years. Founded in 1958 in response to the abrupt termination of the national school feeding programme, PSFA remains dedicated to ensuring that no learner in the province goes hungry while pursuing an education.


A Legacy of Compassion


On 10 March 1958, the National Party government cancelled the national school feeding programme, citing “wastage” caused by poor administrative control. However, the outcry from communities and the evident need among children from impoverished families could not be ignored. Reports of children fainting in classrooms and skipping school due to hunger spurred the Rotary Club of Paarden Eiland (now Table Bay) into action.


Within three days, the Peninsula School Feeding Association was born with a mission to combat hunger in schools. In its early years, the cost of feeding a child was just ten shillings per term — less than R1 for an entire year.


Meeting Today’s Challenges


Over six decades later, PSFA remains committed to addressing hunger among learners in the Western Cape. The organisation now serves cooked nutritious breakfasts and lunches to 34 942 learners daily across 413 educational institutions, including:


  • 149 primary, secondary, and special needs schools (25,185 learners);

  • 254 Early Childhood Development Centres (ECDCs) (8,127 children);

  • Three Orphaned and Vulnerable Children Centres (OVCs) (300 children); and

  • Seven Technical and Vocational Education and Training Colleges (TVETs) (1,330 students).


PSFA’s support extends beyond food provision. The organisation supplies each school supported by its nutrition support programme with essential equipment such as gas stoves, pots, and utensils, trains community members to prepare meals, and ensures timely delivery of ingredients for a weekly set menu through contracted transport services. Thanks to donor funding, 131 fully equipped kitchens have been supplied to schools with inadequate cooking facilities.


Monitoring for Excellence


To maintain the highest standards, PSFA employs field workers to monitor and evaluate its nutrition support programme. These dedicated professionals conduct regular site visits to ensure quality control, hygiene, proper stock management, and adherence to daily menus. Their detailed weekly reports help address challenges and maintain the programme’s efficiency.



Breaking the Cycle of Poverty


The impact of PSFA’s work is profound. By providing two nutritious meals a day at a cost of just R5.00 per learner, the programme meets 33% of a child’s daily nutritional requirements. The cost to feed a learner for a year (190 school days) is R950.


This initiative addresses malnutrition, improves academic performance, boosts energy and productivity, and alleviates stress among children and their families. Moreover, it fosters community empowerment and engagement as volunteer food preparers receive ongoing training and mentorship.


A Persistent Need


Despite its achievements, the need for PSFA’s work remains critical. According to the University of Cape Town’s Children’s Institute, three out of every four children in South Africa live in poverty, with 30% of the population facing food insecurity. PSFA’s efforts are a lifeline for thousands of children who would otherwise be left behind.


Blisters for Bread: A Beacon of Hope


One of the organisation’s key fundraising initiatives is the annual Blisters for Bread Charity Family Fun Walk. Held on the last Sunday of August, this 56-year-old event draws over 7 000 participants each year and raises an average of R700 000. Every cent of the entry fees is allocated directly to PSFA’s school nutrition support programme, making it a vital contributor to the organisation's mission.


A Call to Action


PSFA’s success is built on the generosity of its donors, including individuals, corporations, trusts, and community organisations. However, the need far exceeds current resources, and the Western Cape Education Department’s National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP) is unable to cover all schools. PSFA steps in to fill the gap.


PSFA believes every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and achieve their potential. As the saying goes, “You can’t teach a hungry child.” By addressing hunger, PSFA lays the foundation for a brighter future for thousands of learners.


Join PSFA in their Fight Against Hunger


To support the Peninsula School Feeding Association or to learn more about their programmes, please contact:


Charles Grey

Fundraising Manager, Peninsula School Feeding Association

Phone: 021 447 6020



Comments

bottom of page