The Peninsula School Feeding Association (PSFA), in partnership with the Western Cape Education Department (WCED), Tiger Brands Foundation (TBF) and Breadline Africa, officially launched its Nutrition Support Programme and the presentation of a new kitchen at St Helena Bay Primary School in St Helena Bay on Wednesday, 21 October 2026.

The initiative strengthens access to nutritious meals for the school’s 1,114 learners, with the combined efforts of the four partners ensuring that every learner receives breakfast and lunch daily.

Through the WCED’s National School Nutrition Programme (NSNP), 446 learners, representing 40% of the school’s enrolment, receive daily lunches. PSFA provides daily lunches to a further 668 learners, covering the remaining 60% of the school population.

In addition, the Tiger Brands Foundation provides daily breakfasts to all 1,114 learners, helping ensure that learners start their school day with a meal. The new kitchen, sponsored by Breadline Africa and the Tiger Brands Foundation, provides essential infrastructure to support meal preparation for the school community.

Petrina Pakoe, Director of the Peninsula School Feeding Association, said the partnership demonstrates what can be achieved when organisations work together towards a common goal.

“When children have access to nutritious meals, they are better equipped to concentrate in the classroom, participate in their education and reach their full potential. This partnership is a wonderful example of how collaboration can make a meaningful difference in the lives of learners. By working alongside the WCED, Tiger Brands Foundation and Breadline Africa, we are helping to ensure that all 1,114 learners at St Helena Primary School receive daily breakfast and lunch. The new kitchen is an important investment in the school and its learners, and we are grateful to our partners for making this possible,” said Pakoe.

The launch highlights the importance of collaboration between government, non-profit organisations and the private sector in addressing child hunger and supporting education. By combining resources, funding and infrastructure, the partners are helping create an environment in which learners can focus on learning and building a brighter future.

There were plenty of smiles and happy faces on Tuesday, 20 October, when the Peninsula School Feeding Association (PSFA), in partnership with KFC Add Hope and Grassroots Educare Trust, celebrated World Food Day with more than 170 children from its Early Childhood Development (ECD) Nutrition Support Programme on the West Coast.

The children enjoyed a fun-filled morning of activities, a delicious lunch and refreshments. To make the day even more special, PSFA Director Petrina Pakoe and Project Coordinator Thandi Mtombeni presented each participating ECD with a gift of educational toys to help make learning fun. It was a lovely morning, and everyone had a great time!

Speaking about the importance of the programme, Petrina Pakoe said: “Every child deserves the chance to grow up healthy, learn and reach their full potential, and good nutrition plays a vital role in making that possible. The first 1,000 days of a child’s life, from conception to their second birthday, are particularly important, as this is a critical period for brain development, physical growth, and the establishment of a strong foundation for lifelong health. Access to nutritious food during these early years can make a lasting difference to a child’s future.

“We are grateful to KFC Add Hope and Grassroots Educare Trust for helping us make a difference in the lives of young children on the West Coast. It was wonderful to see the children enjoying themselves, and we hope the educational toys will bring them many more hours of fun and learning,” said Petrina Pakoe, Director of PSFA.

Small contributions, a big difference

KFC Add Hope is helping to tackle child hunger in South Africa by giving customers the opportunity to add a R2 donation to their KFC purchase. While R2 may seem like a small amount, these contributions add up and help fund meals for children who might otherwise go without the nutrition they need.

Through funding received from the KFC Add Hope R2 initiative, PSFA provides daily meals to:

• 521 children at 16 ECD centres on the West Coast
• 5,530 learners at 27 schools in the Western Cape
• 5,000 children at 145 ECD centres in the Eastern Cape

For young children, access to nutritious food is about more than simply filling a hungry tummy. It supports healthy growth and development while giving children a better chance to concentrate, participate in activities, and make the most of their early learning experiences.

The World Food Day celebration was a wonderful opportunity to bring the children together for a morning of fun while highlighting the difference that ongoing nutrition support makes in their lives.

PSFA thanks KFC Add Hope and Grassroots Educare Trust for their partnership and continued commitment to supporting young children in our communities. We are also grateful to everyone who contributes to KFC Add Hope, because every R2 donation helps make a difference.

A nutritious meal, a little extra cheer and a shared commitment to nourishing young minds marked PSFA’s World Food Day celebration in Kraaifontein.

In recognition of World Food Day 2026, the Peninsula School Feeding Association (PSFA) brought a special touch to lunchtime at Eagle’s Nest Christian Primary School in Wallacedene, Kraaifontein, on Friday, 16 October.

PSFA staff rolled up their sleeves to prepare and serve a nutritious meal of curry soya, noodles and vegetables, followed by a fresh apple, to the school’s 523 learners and staff. The occasion was about more than sharing a meal – it was an opportunity to celebrate the importance of good nutrition in supporting children’s health, learning and development.

Founded in 2006 by Dave and Celia Goddard through Eagle’s Nest Ministries, the independent, co-educational Christian school provides education from Grade R to Grade 7. The school’s commitment to education and community support reflects the important role that schools play in creating opportunities for children to thrive.

Bronwyn Damon, Programme Manager at PSFA, highlighted the vital connection between nutrition and education.

“Food is about so much more than filling a child’s stomach. When learners have access to nutritious meals, they are better equipped to concentrate in the classroom, participate in activities and make the most of their education. World Food Day reminds us that every child deserves the opportunity to learn and grow without hunger standing in the way. We are grateful to everyone who helps make this possible,” said Damon.

The theme for World Food Day 2026, “Innovate today. Nourish tomorrow.”, highlights the importance of finding innovative ways to build resilient food systems and ensure that everyone has access to safe, nutritious and affordable food. Led by the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO), this year’s campaign focuses on the role of science, data, technology and artificial intelligence in addressing global food challenges while protecting natural resources for future generations.

While innovation plays an important role in shaping the future of food, initiatives such as PSFA’s school nutrition support programme demonstrate the immediate impact that practical, community-driven action can have on children’s lives today.

The celebration was made even more special through the generosity of the Woolworths Foods Business – Central Trade & Merchandising Team, which provided each Grade R learner and staff member with a special goodie bag.

PSFA extends its sincere thanks to both partners for helping make the day memorable for the learners and staff at Eagle’s Nest Christian Primary School.

As PSFA continues its work to ensure that vulnerable learners receive nutritious meals at school, World Food Day serves as a timely reminder that nourishing children today is an investment in a healthier, brighter tomorrow.

Together, we can help ensure that no child’s potential is limited by hunger.

The Peninsula School Feeding Association (PSFA) is delighted to announce that it has received a remarkable donation of R698,500, raised through the popular television game show Deal or No Deal Celebrity.

Sponsored by LottoStar and broadcast on SABC 1, PSFA was selected as a beneficiary charity, with celebrities playing to raise funds for the organisation’s school nutrition support programme.

Thirteen much-loved South African personalities stepped onto the Deal or No Deal stage once a week to play for a purpose far greater than personal gain. Every strategic decision, deal and cash prize won by the celebrities contributed directly to PSFA, helping the organisation provide nutritious meals to vulnerable learners.

The funds raised will make a tangible difference to the lives of children across the Western Cape. The R698,500 donation will enable PSFA to provide 681 learners with nutritious breakfasts and lunches every school day for an entire year, totalling an outstanding 258,780 meals.

“We are deeply grateful to LottoStar, SABC 1 and every one of the celebrities for their incredible support of PSFA and for using the platform to create such a meaningful social impact,” said Charles Grey, Fundraising Manager at PSFA. “This partnership demonstrates the difference that can be achieved when entertainment and purpose come together. Most importantly, it will help ensure that vulnerable learners receive the nutritious meals they need to thrive at school, while giving them the opportunity to focus on their education and their future.”

Beyond the funds raised, the initiative has also helped introduce new audiences to PSFA and its vital work to combat hunger in schools. It is hoped that this increased awareness will inspire new supporters and donors to join the organisation in its mission.

“Every contribution, no matter how big or small, can help put a nutritious meal on a child’s plate,” Grey added. “We encourage individuals, businesses and organisations to support PSFA and help create an environment where children can focus on what matters most, their education and their future.”

Actress and presenter Luyanda Zuma, one of 13 celebrity contestants on Deal or No Deal Celebrity, was thrilled to win the R250,000 grand prize for PSFA. Presenter Katlego Maboe proudly presented Luyanda with the cheque.

The 58th Blisters for Bread, in association with Lucky Star, took place on Sunday, 16 August 2026, at the Green Point Common Sports Grounds, uniting 10,000 participants for a memorable day of community spirit, entertainment and fundraising in support of the Peninsula School Feeding Association (PSFA).

Participants took part in 5km and 10km walks along the scenic Sea Point Promenade, united by a shared commitment to helping combat child hunger in the Western Cape. The event was supported by extensive publicity across radio, newspapers, social media and television, helping to generate significant awareness for PSFA’s vital school nutrition programmes.

The event raised an impressive R1,334,296 through entry fees, donations, and corporate hospitality packages. This funding will enable PSFA to provide nutritious breakfasts and lunches every school day for 1,300 children affected by poverty for an entire year.

The event also received strong support from the Western Cape Government and the City of Cape Town. Among the distinguished representatives who attended and joined thousands of participants on the walk were Western Cape Premier Alan Winde; MEC for Social Development Jaco Londt; MEC for Cultural Affairs & Sport Ricardo Mackenzie; MEC for Mobility Isaac Sileku; and Executive Mayor of Cape Town Geordin Hill-Lewis and the Deputy Mayor of Cape Town, Alderman Eddie Andrews.

“Blisters for Bread is about so much more than a walk – it is a powerful demonstration of what can be achieved when we come together around a common purpose. Every step and every rand raised helps us provide nutritious meals to children in need. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who supported this year’s event and helped turn collective action into meaningful impact,” said Petrina Pakoe, Director of PSFA.

Following the walks, participants received their well-earned medals and enjoyed complimentary refreshments generously provided by Coca-Cola Peninsula Beverages, together with Lucky Star tasters.

The day concluded on a high note with a free live concert on the Coca-Cola Gig Rig, hosted by Kfm presenter Tracey Lange and PSFA fundraising manager Charles Grey, featuring performances by Paxton, Steven Lee Lewis and DJ Sketchy Bongo, as well as lucky-walker number draws.

The success of Blisters for Bread 2026 was made possible through the generous support of our valued partners, sponsors, participants and the wider community. Particular thanks go to official radio partner Kfm 94.5, which joined the event as its new radio partner this year. Kfm 94.5 played an instrumental role in promoting the event, driving participation and helping PSFA raise vital funds in the ongoing fight against child hunger in the Western Cape.

Now in its 58th year, Blisters for Bread continues to demonstrate the power of collective action. What began as a walk has grown into one of PSFA’s flagship fundraising events, giving thousands of people the opportunity to take meaningful steps towards a future in which no child has to learn on an empty stomach.

On behalf of the learners living in poverty who benefit daily from our school nutrition support programme, as well as PSFA’s General Committee, management, and staff, I would like to extend our sincere thanks to the following:

• Everyone who entered the event and participated in the 10km or 5km walks and/or made financial donations in support of the event
• Lucky Star – main sponsor
• The Western Cape Government – support sponsor
• Blue Ribbon – support sponsor
• Akila – support sponsor
• Bidfood SA for the generous donation made in support of the event
• City of Cape Town’s Events Department and the City Services for sponsoring metro and law enforcement services
• Coca-Cola Peninsula Beverages – hydration and logistics partner
• Kfm 94.5 – official radio partner
• People’s Post – official print media partner, including the TygerBurger and City Vision
• Members of the Lions Club of the Greater Western Cape who volunteered as marshals
• DHL Stadium for the following:
  • Sponsoring 4 tickets to the Springboks vs All Blacks Test Match held on August 29, 2026, that were used as a prize for the post-event social media competition
  • Waiver of venue rental cost for the Venue Operations Centre (VOC)
  • Waiver of venue rental cost for Parking Area P5
• Sportsmans Warehouse branches for entry registrations
• Banks R & L Hiring, for offering a great discount on the marquee and catering equipment for PSFA’s hospitality area
• Oxford University Press (OUP) and Nurture Shared Services for purchasing hospitality packages
• All companies that purchased group entries
• Balega Socks, Blistex, Akila, Lucky Star, Trenton, The Lab, Powerbar, and Dove for sponsoring items for the PSFA VIP goodie bags
• Melomed24, Cape Town Tourism, Akila, NOMU, Lucky Star, Blue Ribbon, and Coca-Cola Peninsula Beverages, for providing prizes for the lucky walker number draws
• NOMU and Coca-Cola Peninsula Beverages, for sponsoring products for our VIP hospitality area and the VOC
• The Fuzion Digital team, together with Jade Campbell, for expertly managing the social media for the event
• Top Events SA, for the outstanding job done organising the event on our behalf

Together, we are making a lasting difference in the lives of children across the Western Cape.

Save the date! Blisters for Bread 2027 is happening on Sunday, 29 August! We can’t wait to hit the road with you again for another day of walking, fun, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of children.

PSFA was proud to be recognised by Oceana at the 4th Annual Oceana CEO-CSI Engagement, held at the Pepperclub Hotel in Cape Town on Friday, 20 August, celebrating an incredible 27-year partnership.

Over nearly three decades, the partnership between PSFA and Oceana has made a meaningful difference in the lives of children attending schools affected by poverty. Together, the organisations have enabled the provision of more than 3.4 million nutritious meals, helping to improve nutrition, school attendance and learning outcomes across the communities PSFA serves.

The recognition is a testament to what can be achieved when committed organisations work together towards a common goal. By addressing food insecurity and supporting vulnerable children, PSFA and Oceana continue to play an important role in tackling poverty, hunger and inequality in South Africa.

“A partnership that spans 27 years is a remarkable achievement and a powerful example of the impact that sustained corporate support can have,” said Charles Grey, Fundraising Manager at PSFA. “We are incredibly grateful to Oceana for its ongoing commitment to PSFA and, most importantly, to the children we serve. Every meal provided represents an opportunity for a child to arrive at school nourished, focused, and ready to learn. We look forward to continuing this journey together and making an even greater difference in the years ahead.”

PSFA extends its sincere thanks to Oceana for its continued support and commitment to food security. This longstanding partnership demonstrates that when organisations join forces, we can create lasting change and help ensure that children have the nutritious meals they need to learn, grow and thrive.

Pictured: PSFA Director Petrina Pakoe receiving the award from Neville Brink, CEO of Oceana Group Limited.

The Peninsula School Feeding Association (PSFA) is delighted to celebrate the generosity of its founding organisation, the Rotary Club of Table Bay, which has donated R32,999.30 to provide much-needed catering equipment to six schools participating in our Nutrition Support Programme.

The donation has enabled PSFA to purchase and supply essential kitchen equipment to:

• Forest Heights Primary School (Eerste River)
• Gateway Primary School (Delft)
• Koeberg Primary School (Maitland)
• Sarepta Primary School (Kuils River)
• Scottsville Primary School (Kraaifontein)
• The Ark Christian School (Faure)

On Friday, 31 July, PSFA had the pleasure of welcoming Claudine Hennessey, President of the Rotary Club of Table Bay, together with fellow Rotary members Mandy Allan, Wilbur van Niekerk, who also serves on the PSFA General Committee, and Kendall van Niekerk, to Forest Heights Primary School and The Ark Christian School. During the visit, the Rotary representatives officially presented the new catering equipment to the schools, witnessing first-hand the positive impact their support will have on learners and the dedicated volunteers who prepare nutritious meals every day.

The donated equipment includes pots, urns, gas stoves, plates, spoons, knives, potato peelers, chopping boards, colanders, whisks, jugs, can openers and PSFA-branded aprons, items that are essential for preparing and serving thousands of nutritious meals safely and efficiently.

The new equipment will make a meaningful difference by:

• Improving food safety and hygiene through the use of durable, food-safe equipment that supports proper food handling practices.
• Ensuring the consistent delivery of daily nutritious meals by reducing the risk of equipment failures or shortages disrupting feeding operations.
• Providing learners with a greater sense of dignity at mealtimes through the use of proper plates, spoons and serving utensils.
• Supporting the dedicated volunteer food handlers by making meal preparation safer, easier and less physically demanding.

Claudine Hennessey, President of the Rotary Club of Table Bay, said: “The Rotary Club of Table Bay is incredibly proud to continue supporting the Peninsula School Feeding Association, an organisation that has transformed the lives of vulnerable children for decades. As PSFA’s founding organisation, it is especially meaningful for us to help provide practical resources that strengthen its Nutrition Support Programme. We know this equipment will not only make meal preparation easier and safer for volunteers but will also help ensure that thousands of learners continue to receive nutritious meals with dignity every school day.”

Petrina Pakoe, Director of the Peninsula School Feeding Association, expressed her appreciation: “We are sincerely grateful to the Rotary Club of Table Bay for this generous donation and for their unwavering support over so many years. Reliable catering equipment is fundamental to the success of our Nutrition Support Programme. This investment will strengthen our partner schools’ ability to prepare and serve nutritious meals safely and efficiently, ensuring that learners can focus on learning rather than hunger. Partnerships such as this enable us to continue making a lasting difference in the lives of children across our communities.”

PSFA extends its heartfelt thanks to the Rotary Club of Table Bay for its continued commitment to helping us nourish young minds and create brighter futures. Together, we are ensuring that vulnerable learners have the nutrition they need to learn, grow and thrive.

The atmosphere at the Artscape Theatre Centre’s Marble Foyer was filled with excitement and community spirit as corporate teams, arts organisations and volunteers came together for the Peninsula School Feeding Association’s (PSFA) 7th annual Mandela Day Sandwich Making Challenge. Hosted in partnership with Fine Music Radio (FMR), the event celebrated the legacy of Nelson Mandela by inspiring people to dedicate their 67 minutes to making a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable children.

Guests were welcomed by the vibrant sounds of live African music performed by the Jungle Theatre Company, setting the tone for an unforgettable morning. Following inspiring welcome addresses by Vasili Vass, Station Manager of Fine Music Radio, Marlene le Roux, CEO of Artscape, and PSFA Director Petrina Pakoe, PSFA Project Coordinator Alan Roberts briefed volunteers before the 67-minute challenge officially got underway.

The original goal was to prepare 4,500 sandwiches, but the enthusiasm, teamwork and determination of the volunteers far exceeded expectations. By the end of the challenge, an incredible 5,514 sandwiches had been prepared for distribution to PSFA’s partner community kitchens and early childhood development centres (ECDs), providing immediate nourishment to children in need.

Corporate Sector Steps Up

This year marked the introduction of a dedicated corporate challenge, with businesses invited to purchase a table of 10 for R10,260—enough to feed 10 vulnerable children for an entire school year through PSFA’s school nutrition programme.

In recognition of their generous support, PSFA Chairman Brian Benatar presented each participating corporate team with a Certificate of Appreciation and special gift.

Reflecting on the day’s success, PSFA Director Petrina Pakoe said:

“The spirit of Ubuntu was truly alive at Artscape. Seeing the corporate sector step up so tangibly alongside our creative community shows the profound impact we can make when we unite against childhood hunger. These 5,514 sandwiches represent immediate relief, while the generous sponsorships raised today will help ensure that children receive nutritious meals throughout the school year. Together, we are moving closer to a future where no child has to learn on an empty stomach.”

Thank You to Our Incredible Supporters

PSFA extends its heartfelt thanks to the corporate partners who embraced this year’s challenge:

• Mercedes-Benz Western Cape
• OUTsurance
• JTC Fund Solutions RSA
• Toshiba Cape Town

We also gratefully acknowledge the many organisations whose generosity and support made the event possible:

• Fine Music Radio (FMR) and Artscape for their valued partnership and the use of the iconic venue.
• The Jungle Theatre Company for the vibrant live entertainment.
• Blue Ribbon for donating 750 loaves of brown bread.
• Bidfood South Africa for the generous donation of peanut butter and jam.
• Coca-Cola Peninsula Beverages for keeping volunteers refreshed throughout the morning.
• Joy Mila for providing event staffing and personal protective equipment, including hair nets, aprons and plastic gloves.
• APL Cartons for donating the boxes used to pack and transport the sandwiches.
• Banks R & L Hiring for the complimentary use of trestle tables.
• The dedicated volunteers from Cape Town City Ballet, Cape Town Opera, Artscape, G&S Cape Town, and members of the public who generously gave their time in service of others.

Every sandwich made represents more than a meal—it is a gesture of hope, compassion and solidarity. PSFA sincerely thanks everyone who dedicated their 67 minutes to helping fight childhood hunger. Together, we are ensuring that more children receive the nutrition they need to learn, grow and thrive.

The Peninsula School Feeding Association (PSFA) extends its sincere appreciation to Fedics, a premier South African contract catering company and a division of the Tsebo Solutions Group, for its generous support of our nutrition programme and school kitchen operations.

As the Q2 winner of the Tsebo Employee Volunteer Programme (TEVP), PSFA was honoured to receive a R10 000 donation, along with bleach, hair nets, dishwashing liquid, and pot scourers. These essential items will help our food handlers maintain safe and hygienic kitchen environments while preparing nutritious meals for thousands of children across the Western Cape each school day.

We are equally encouraged by Tsebo’s commitment to community development through its School Cleaning & Hygiene Project, which equips disadvantaged schools with cleaning equipment, environmentally friendly cleaning products, training and independent audits to promote and sustain high standards of hygiene. This holistic approach creates healthier learning environments where children can thrive.

Bronwyn Damon, Programmes Manager at PSFA, expressed her gratitude for the partnership: “Food safety and hygiene are fundamental to the success of our feeding programme. Donations such as these not only strengthen our school kitchens but also help ensure that every meal is prepared in a clean and safe environment for the children we serve. We are sincerely grateful to Fedics and the Tsebo Solutions Group for investing in the wellbeing of our learners and supporting the important work of our dedicated food handlers.”

PSFA thanks Fedics and the Tsebo Solutions Group for their generosity and for partnering with us to create healthier schools and brighter futures for the children in our care.

Dennis Hutchinson, Human Resource Manager at Fedics Catering, and Keziah Golden-Singh, Talent and Resourcing Specialist – Coastal at Fedics Catering, presenting the donated cleaning materials to Chantal Crook, Donor Administrator at PSFA.

On Tuesday, 9 June 2026, the Peninsula School Feeding Association (PSFA) was honoured to participate in a special knowledge-sharing session hosted by WITH (Wholistic Interest Through Health), an international non-governmental organisation based in South Korea.

The session formed part of WITH’s Africa Regional Conference in Cape Town and brought together approximately 20 leaders and regional representatives working across the African continent. As WITH continues to expand its efforts to establish sustainable school feeding models in Africa, the organisation invited PSFA to share insights from its 68 years of experience in combating child hunger in the Western Cape.

PSFA Director, Petrina Pakoe, delivered a presentation highlighting the organisation’s history, guiding philosophy and operational approach to school feeding. She shared how PSFA has grown into one of South Africa’s most respected school feeding organisations, providing nutritious meals to thousands of learners while building strong partnerships with schools, communities, donors and volunteers.

WITH is a group of food and nutrition experts committed to improving global health through a holistic approach to community well-being. The organisation has successfully implemented sustainable school feeding and nutrition programmes in countries including Mongolia, Cambodia, Tanzania, Madagascar, Myanmar and North Korea. It is also recognised for its role in supporting the Mongolian government in institutionalising a national school lunch programme.

The delegation expressed a keen interest in understanding the factors that have enabled PSFA to sustain its impact over nearly seven decades. Discussions focused on the organisation’s operational strategies, community-centred approach and commitment to ensuring that children have access to nutritious meals that support their education and development.

The engagement provided a valuable opportunity for dialogue and learning, allowing participants to exchange ideas and explore practical solutions to child hunger. It also highlighted the importance of collaboration between organisations working towards a common goal: ensuring that children have the nourishment they need to learn, grow and reach their full potential.

PSFA is grateful to WITH for the opportunity to share its experience and contribute to conversations about sustainable school feeding across Africa. Together, organisations such as WITH and PSFA are helping to build a future where no child is prevented from learning because of hunger.