Caring Schools - Free State, South Africa

The Need:

An estimated one-third of 10th graders in South Africa are orphans. Many are raising younger siblings. High school graduation rates hover at 50 percent. One barrier to success is clear—hunger. A question at the heart of our pilot was:

Does availability of good food improve student performance?

Mothering Across Continents Chief Catalyst Patricia Shafer partnered with Save the Children South Africa on a meals and sustainable gardens initiative at three high schools in the impoverished community of Qwa Qwa. In the last phase (2009-10), $25,000 a semester covered:

• Daily meals for 655 vulnerable students
• Menus above government standards, incorporating protein and vegetables
• Project leadership training for administrators and students
• Results assessment

The Dream:

The pilot was a success. Insights are being shared with a network of 90 South African schools. We are seeking grants to fund a training module for 500 local educators ($25,000).