In the busy heart of Johannesburg’s CBD, Thandanani has become a place of refuge, learning, and hope for orphaned and vulnerable children. Founded in 2007 by Mrs Kgadi Ruth Maetisa, the organisation was born out of a deep commitment to protect and uplift children who have faced abandonment, neglect, or abuse.
Over the years, Thandanani has grown into a nurturing home where children are not only cared for but also given access to education, skills training, and emotional support. The team’s mission is to restore dignity and give every child a real chance at a better life, guided by values of compassion, respect, and inclusion.
A turning point for Thandanani came in 2017, when the organisation partnered with FoodForward SA. This partnership has been transformative, allowing Thandanani to provide regular, nutritious meals to over 420 children every month. For many of these children, that daily meal is more than food – it is comfort, energy, and a reason to hope. As Mrs Maetisa explains, “This partnership is vital. Because of FoodForward SA, our children receive consistent meals that keep them healthy and ready to learn. It also allows us to redirect funds toward education and skill-building programmes.”
The impact has been both deeply personal and far-reaching. One young girl arrived at Thandanani severely underweight and unable to focus in class. After several months of receiving balanced meals through the FoodForward SA programme, her teacher noticed a dramatic improvement in her attention and enthusiasm for learning. Today, she is one of the most engaged learners in her class. “The food didn’t just fill her stomach – it gave her the energy to hope,” says Mrs Maetisa. Stories like hers are common at Thandanani, where consistent access to food has helped children regain their health, confidence, and sense of belonging.
The difference can also be seen among caregivers. Many once struggled to stretch limited resources to feed the children in their care. One caregiver shared, “Before the partnership, I often used my own money to buy food. It was stressful and unsustainable. Now, because of FoodForward SA, I can focus on being a mother and not managing hunger.” This sense of relief has created a more stable, caring environment where children can grow up feeling safe and supported.
The ripple effect of this partnership extends beyond Thandanani’s walls. Improved nutrition has led to better school attendance and fewer health issues among the children. It has also strengthened community trust, as parents and caregivers see the organisation’s consistent commitment to meeting children’s most essential needs. “When a child doesn’t have to worry about where their next meal will come from, they can finally focus on learning and dreaming,” says Mrs Maetisa.
Looking ahead, Thandanani has ambitious plans to grow its impact. The team aims to expand its skills development programmes, gain SETA accreditation, and create more opportunities for children to build self-reliance and confidence. Sustainability is key to their vision, ensuring that Thandanani can continue transforming lives for years to come.
To FoodForward SA’s donors and partners, Thandanani offers heartfelt thanks. “Your generosity isn’t just about food,” says Mrs Maetisa. “You’re giving these children the strength to learn, the courage to dream, and the hope to believe in a better tomorrow. Your support makes our work possible, and we are deeply grateful.”
At Thandanani, every meal served is a step toward healing. Every child fed is a life renewed. And every act of kindness is a reminder that love truly has the power to change the world.