The Peninsula School Feeding Association (PSFA) is proud to be a member of the Cape Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Our director, Petrina Pakoe, who also serves as Vice-Chairperson of the Chamber’s NPO Sector Committee, together with our Fundraising Manager, Charles Grey, recently attended the launch of the Chamber’s new NPO Portfolio in Century City. This strategic initiative aims to integrate the vital community development work of non-profit organisations into the broader Chamber network.

The launch coincided with the findings of a comprehensive research report into the economic impact of NPOs, sponsored by the Chamber and due to be officially released next month. The study, conducted by Henley Business School South Africa, underscores the significant role that non-profit organisations play as drivers of socio-economic development, rather than merely charitable entities.

According to a survey of 361 Western Cape NPOs, the sector generates a collective annual income of R1.49 billion, highlighting its substantial contribution to the regional economy. In addition, these organisations collectively employ 21,398 people in various capacities, further demonstrating the sector’s importance as an economic stakeholder.

The report also reveals that 250 of the surveyed NPOs provide skills development training to 687,697 beneficiaries. These programmes span a wide range of focus areas, including financial literacy, leadership development, life skills, and sports training—illustrating the breadth and depth of the sector’s impact.

Speaking at the launch, Chamber NPO Portfolio Chairperson Dee Moskoff emphasised the importance of collaboration between business and the non-profit sector. “NPOs are not charities — we are critical partners in business,” she said. “There is a growing emphasis on the environmental and social impact of businesses, particularly as business success is closely linked to the well-being of the communities in which they operate. In this context, collaboration between businesses and NPOs has become increasingly important.”

She further highlighted opportunities for mutual training initiatives and crisis-intervention support across education, healthcare, and social services. Businesses, she noted, can assist NPOs by strengthening their internal capabilities or providing professional services that are not available in-house.

The launch event featured several high-profile panellists who discussed the far-reaching impact of NPOs. Among them was Clara Kwizera of Izinga Assist, a verification platform for NPOs and one of four organisations tasked with verifying NPOs forming part of the Chamber’s new portfolio. Kwizera noted that a key function of NPOs is to mitigate risk within the country, the economy, and society at large. “We’re all in trouble if our NPO sector doesn’t succeed,” she said.

The establishment of the NPO Portfolio marks a significant step toward strengthening collaboration between the business and non-profit sectors, reinforcing the role of NPOs as essential partners in driving sustainable socio-economic development in the Western Cape.

#PeninsulaSchoolFeedingAssociation #PSFA #CapeChamber #NPOImpact #SocioEconomicDevelopment #ChildNutrition #WesternCape #BusinessAndNPO #PartnershipsForImpact #CommunityDevelopment

Cape Town:  For nearly six decades, the Blisters for Bread Charity Family Fun Walk has brought together families, schools, businesses and community organisations in a shared stand against child hunger. Now in its 58th year, this much-loved event faces an uncertain future.

To deliver the event safely and professionally and to ensure it remains accessible for the community, the Peninsula School Feeding Association (PSFA) requires R1.5 million in sponsorship funding. This sponsorship enables PSFA to cover all operational costs. This means walker entry fees remain affordable and 100% of the money raised is directed to its school feeding programmes.

Without urgent sponsorship support, the 2026 Blisters for Bread walk may not go ahead, dealing a significant blow not only to the PSFA but also to the families, schools, and communities who have made this event an annual tradition.

The PSFA is calling on members of the corporate sector to partner with the 2026 Blisters for Bread Charity Family Fun Walk.  Beyond the disappointment of losing this event, the walk raises awareness of childhood hunger and contributes to vital funding for the PSFA’s school nutrition support programme, which feeds over 30 000 learners across the Western Cape each school day.

Since its inception, Blisters for Bread has grown into a trusted platform for collaboration, combining large-scale public participation with a strong focus on social impact.  For many, it is one of the few affordable, inclusive, intergenerational events where communities can actively take part in supporting vulnerable children.

“Blisters for Bread has always been built on partnership,” said PSFA Chairman Brian Benatar. “Corporate support plays a critical role in helping us deliver a high-quality event, while maximising the funds that go directly to our core feeding mission. Without this support, we risk losing not only this event but a powerful platform for the community to show solidarity against child hunger.” 

The event has historically benefited from strong corporate involvement.  It offers sponsors credible brand visibility, employee engagement opportunities and alignment with a respected NGO addressing food insecurity among vulnerable schoolchildren.

“Blisters for Bread continues to demonstrate what is possible when business and community work together,” said PSFA Director, Petrina Pakoe. “We are sincerely grateful to the companies that have stood by us year after year through donations, sponsorships, corporate hospitality and activations. Their support helps keep the walk accessible while making a lasting difference in the lives of children who rely on our meals.”

PSFA welcomes the opportunity to engage with businesses interested in supporting the 2026 Walk through sponsorship or partnership.  For more information, please contact PSFA’s Fundraising Manager, Charles Grey, on 021 447 6020 or 071 262 5199, or via email at charles@psfa.org.za.

The Peninsula School Feeding Association (PSFA) is delighted to share the wonderful success of our flagship fundraising event, Blisters for Bread in association with Lucky Star, held on Sunday, 31 August 2025, at the Green Point Common Sports Grounds.

Thanks to your generous support, favourable weather, and outstanding coverage across social media, radio, community newspapers, outdoor digital advertising and television, this year’s walk was a truly memorable occasion. An incredible 9,881 participants laced up their tekkies to participate in either the 5km or 10km walk, reflecting a powerful spirit of community and compassion for hungry schoolchildren.

We were deeply honoured by the presence of esteemed dignitaries from the Western Cape Government and the City of Cape Town. Premier Alan Winde had the privilege of firing the starter’s gun for the 10km walk. He was joined by MEC for Education David Maynier, MEC for Social Development Jaco Londt, and Cllr Francine Higham, Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health. We were also pleased to welcome Lourens de Waal, Managing Director of Lucky Star, along with Brian Benatar, Chairman of PSFA, whose commitment and leadership continue to drive this event forward.

Every participant who crossed the finish line was celebrated as a winner, receiving a medal and a Sneaker Lab sneaker wipe as well as refreshing beverages from Coca-Cola Peninsula Beverages and delicious tasters generously supplied by Lucky Star.

The festivities concluded with a spectacular free live concert showcasing some of Cape Town’s finest singers. The audience was treated to memorable performances by Mujahid George, a surprise appearance by Alistair Isobell, as well as Anslin Gysman and Natasha van der Merwe, who was joined on stage by her fellow Suidooster cast and crew. Their energy and talent created an unforgettable atmosphere. Adding to the vibrancy of the occasion, Heart FM presenter Gershawn Coetzee and PSFA Fundraising Manager Charles Grey co-presented the concert, keeping spirits high throughout the event.

Reflecting on the event’s success, Petrina Pakoe, Director of PSFA, shared:
“Blisters for Bread is more than just a walk – it is a movement of compassion, unity, and hope. Seeing thousands of people come together for one purpose – to feed hungry children – reminds us of the power of community. Each step taken brings us closer to ensuring that no child goes to school on an empty stomach.”

On behalf of the learners we serve, the voluntary general committee, management, and staff of PSFA, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the following:

• Everyone who entered the event and participated in the 10km or 5km walks, or made donations
• Lucky Star – main 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
• Heart FM – 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
• com – digital partner
• The Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS) for sponsoring public toilets
• The Glynt Group for the complimentary digital outdoor advertising
• Sportsmans Warehouse branches for entry registrations and sponsoring lucky draw prizes
• Sneaker LAB for sponsoring the sneaker wipe for all walkers and prizes for the Lucky draw
• Banks R & L Hiring, for offering a great discount on the marquee and catering equipment for PSFA’s hospitality area
• Oxford University Press and Nurture Shared Services for purchasing hospitality packages
• All companies that purchased group entries
• Crocs for the generous donation made in support of the event
• Olympic, for sponsoring hoodies for PSFA staff, the offer of a 50% discount on their sneakers to all walkers and prizes for the lucky draw
• Balega Socks for sponsoring socks for the PSFA staff and VIP goodie bags
• Melomed24, Melbro, Cape Town Tourism, Akila, Lucky Star, Heart FM and Coca-Cola Peninsula Beverages, for providing prizes for the lucky draw
• NOMU and Coca-Cola Peninsula Beverages, for sponsoring products for our VIP hospitality area and the VOC
• Warren Lodge and the LIFE brand 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 2026 is happening on Sunday, 29 August – and we can’t wait to walk, laugh, and make a difference with you again!”

We are honoured to share that Bishop Stafford Moses, the Bishop of the Diocese of False Bay in the Anglican Church of Southern Africa, paid a special visit to the PSFA offices today. During his visit, Bishop Moses personally presented our director, Petrina Pakoe, and the PSFA team with a generous donation of R90 000.00 in support of our School Nutrition Support Programme.

This meaningful contribution will go a long way in changing lives – enabling PSFA to provide 95 vulnerable schoolchildren with a nutritious, cooked breakfast and lunch every school day for an entire year. For many of these children, these meals are often their only source of reliable daily nourishment, helping them to focus on their studies, stay healthy, and reach their full potential.

In handing over the donation, Bishop Moses expressed his admiration for the work PSFA is doing within the communities across the Diocese of False Bay. He emphasised that the diocese wanted to make a tangible contribution to the fight against child hunger, acknowledging that the wellbeing of children forms the foundation of stronger, healthier communities.

The Bishop also took a moment to pray for our director, staff, and beneficiaries, asking for continued strength and blessings over the important work PSFA is called to do.

We are deeply grateful to Bishop Moses and the Diocese of False Bay for their compassion and generosity. Their support is a true reminder that when faith and community come together, hope is restored and lives are transformed.

#PSFA #NoChildShouldGoHungry #ChildNutrition #CommunitySupport #FaithInAction #MakingADifference #TogetherWeCan #ThankYou #FoodForThought

A great opportunity exists with the Peninsula School Feeding Association (PSFA) for a Junior Bookkeeper. This position is based in Cape Town (Philippi) and reports to the Financial Manager. If you are very meticulous, innovative, customer-oriented, a fast learner and professional, this position is for you!

The successful candidate should be able to perform the following as required and or assigned to you by the Financial Manager and/or work requirements.

Job responsibilities:

Day-to-day processing
o   Cashbook Processing
o   Petty Cash
o   Journal Processing

Reconciliation
o   Bank reconciliation (Weekly)
o   Petty Cash reconciliation (Weekly)

Full Debtors and Creditors function
o   Processing of Invoices
o   Processing of Returns & Discounts
o   Monthly account reconciliations & matching.
o   Monthly Preparation of creditors’ payments.

Understand and complete account processing from the General ledger to the trial balance.

Monitor financial transactions and reports
o   GL reconciliations

Minimum requirements
o Diploma in Bookkeeping/ Finance
o At least 3 – 5 years of bookkeeping experience

Computer literate with proficiency in MS Office (advanced Excel would be advantageous)
o Experience with Pastel Partner – a must.
o Exposure to Pastel Bank Manager (advantageous)
o Able to work independently and/or as part of a team.

Employment will be implemented in accordance with the Employment Equity Act. Only Applicants considered for the role will be contacted.

Closing date: 31 July 2025
Should you wish to apply, please forward a copy of your CV with 3 contactable references as well as a cover letter to recruitment@PSFA.org.za

If you do not hear back from us, please assume that your application has been unsuccessful.

The remuneration package is competitive.

Brett Hochfeld, a former Capetonian now living in London, recently pushed himself to the limit in one of the UK’s most gruelling endurance events – the Thames Path 100 – to raise funds for the Peninsula School Feeding Association (PSFA). This epic 100-mile continuous trail race traces the length of the River Thames, from the heart of London to the historic city of Oxford.

Despite the demanding terrain and testing weather conditions – with unusually warm temperatures during the day and a plunge into single digits at night – Brett completed the race in just over 29 hours. Approximately 40% of the runners were forced to withdraw or failed to meet the time cut-offs, highlighting the enormity of the challenge.

Throughout the race, Brett’s family served as his support crew, meeting him at key points along the route to provide food, encouragement, and real-time updates on the messages of support and donations received. These moments of connection helped keep his spirits high and his determination unwavering.

And Brett’s efforts were nothing short of extraordinary. Not only did he cross the finish line, but he also successfully raised an impressive R40 810.83 for PSFA. This generous contribution will enable us to provide 43 impoverished learners with daily breakfasts and lunches for an entire year, ensuring they receive the necessary nutrition to learn, grow, and thrive.

“It was a privilege to be able to support such a fantastic charity,” said Brett. “No one should have to go to school hungry.”

We are deeply grateful to Brett for his incredible commitment to our cause and for turning every mile of his journey into an opportunity to change lives. Thank you, Brett – your strength, generosity, and heart have had a truly lasting impact.

Brett posing for a picture with his children after completing the Thames Path 100.

We are thrilled to share that the Peninsula School Feeding Association (PSFA) was awarded an Industry Innovation Award at the prestigious Western Cape Economy Innovation Awards Ceremony, held at the Cape Town City Hall on Tuesday, 10 June 2025.

The award was presented to our director, Petrina Pakoe, in recognition of our innovative efforts to empower the incredible women behind our nutrition support programme and our support of small business initiatives within the Western Cape. The business and development model used not only uplifts individuals, community organisations and micro businesses but also strengthens the communities in which we work.

In addition to this life-changing empowerment initiative, the award acknowledges our efforts to identify and implement income-generating opportunities that support PSFA’s long-term funding sustainability. These forward-thinking strategies enable us to continue our core mission of feeding impoverished learners while promoting economic participation and dignity among our volunteers.

The Western Cape Economy Innovation Awards are an esteemed annual event hosted by the Cape Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) in collaboration with the Cape Higher Education Consortium (CHEC). These awards celebrate individuals, businesses, and organisations that are advancing economic growth and creating meaningful impact across the province through innovation.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the CCCI and CHEC for this recognition, as well as to all our partners and supporters who enable us to continue making a difference, one nutritious meal at a time.

#InnovationForGood #WomenEmpowerment #SustainableSolutions #PSFA #FeedingHope #CapeInnovationAwards #CommunityImpact #NutritionMatters #ProudlyPSFA

PSFA’s proud management team, Petrina Pakoe (director), Morne Goosen (finance manager), Tanith Hamman (logistics & warehouse manager) and Charles Grey (fundraising manager) showing off our Innovation Award.

Get ready, Cape Town! The Peninsula School Feeding Association (PSFA) is thrilled to announce the return of Blisters for Bread in association with Lucky Star – our legendary annual charity walk that’s all about fun, fitness, and feeding hungry tummies. Mark your calendars for Sunday, 31 August 2025, and join thousands of cheerful change makers at the Green Point Common Sports Ground, just opposite the Green Point Cricket Club.

Now celebrating 57 years of walking with purpose, the Blisters for Bread Charity Family Fun Walk has grown into one of the Mother City’s most beloved fundraising events – and for good reason! It’s not just about getting your steps in; it’s about stepping up to say no to childhood hunger! With the support of our incredible community, this event raises vital funds to provide daily nutritious meals to schoolchildren in need across the Western Cape.

Starting in Stephan Way, Green Point, and finishing at the Green Point Common Sports Ground, the event offers two scenic route options along Cape Town’s iconic Sea Point Promenade:

• 10km Walk which starts at 07:30
• 5km Walk which starts at 08:00

Everyone’s a winner at Blisters for Bread! Every participant will be presented with a commemorative medal as a token of PSFA’s appreciation for taking part in this meaningful cause. In addition, thanks to the generous support of our hydration partner, Coca-Cola Peninsula Beverages, complimentary refreshments will be available to all walkers, ensuring everyone stays refreshed and energised throughout the day.

But the fun doesn’t end at the finish line! The Green Point Common Sports Ground will come alive with live music performances from Cape Town’s top local artists, family-friendly entertainment, food stalls and loads of activities for kids and grown-ups alike. Whether you’re walking with your school, workplace, friends, or family, this event is the ultimate combo of purpose and play.

“Blisters for Bread is more than just an event – it’s a heartfelt movement,” says Petrina Pakoe, director of PSFA. “Every Rand raised and every kilometre walked helps us ensure that no child has to learn on an empty stomach. We invite everyone – young and old – to walk with purpose and be part of this extraordinary cause.”

Entries are now open, with flexible registration options available for individuals and groups. The R100 entry fee will enable PSFA to provide both breakfast and lunch to 20 hungry schoolchildren for a day. Official event T-shirts are available at R150.

Please note that only online entries will be accepted, and participation is limited to 8 000 walkers. Registration closes at midnight on Sunday, 17 August 2025 – so early entries are strongly encouraged to avoid disappointment.

To register or learn more, please visit www.psfa.org.za. For any enquiries, contact Top Events at info@topevents.co.za or via WhatsApp on 066 139 4210.