For 14 years, HewLin Compassion has been on a mission to empower vulnerable people in the most desperate places.
The organisation has since evolved into a movement dedicated to solving critical issues through creativity, strategy, and progress.
HewLin Compassion’s approach is straightforward: identify a human need and solve it.
This mandate has guided their efforts since 2011, and today, their impact is felt by approximately 350 people weekly. The organisation focuses on enhancing education, leadership, and developmental capacity among those in need, striving to build a better future for individuals and communities alike.
One of their standout achievements is the significant improvement in their food and education programmes. These initiatives have led to a 30% increase in attendance at their after-school and women empowerment programmes and a 25% improvement in academic performance.
By integrating food relief with educational support, HewLin Compassion addresses both immediate needs and long-term development.
In addition to their educational success, the organisation has made strides in job readiness and nutrition. They have established a food-training programme that provides job skills and weekly meals to 350 people in need.
This programme has also improved nutrition knowledge and meal preparation skills among 50 families, enhancing their overall well-being and self-sufficiency.
HewLin Compassion’s efforts have been further amplified through it’s partnership with FoodForward SA.
“For the past four years, as a FoodForward SA Beneficiary Organisation (BO), we have distributed over 450,000 meals and food parcels throughout the Western Cape. This includes more than 300,000 meals during the Covid-19 pandemic alone. The partnership has enabled us to reach even more people in need and to make a significant impact during one of the most challenging times in recent history,” says founder, Hewitt De Jager.
The organisation’s success is also reflected in their volunteer programmes.
Hewitt says: “Volunteers who are part of our job readiness programme receive permanent employment opportunities on an ongoing basis, with the latest placement now in July 2024.
“We’re proud to say that our organisation has been recognised as a leader in our field, thanks in part to your (FoodForward SA’s) support and trust in our mission!
“Your continual contribution and partnership bring us closer to our goal of ensuring no one goes hungry in vulnerable communities. Your trust in our organisation and its mission is truly appreciated. We remain committed to using your provisions wisely and efficiently to make the greatest impact possible.”