Team Pankaj Partners with Ruben Centre to Support Flood-Affected Children

In partnership with the Ruben Centre and individual partners, Team Pankaj launched a feeding initiative on May 6th to provide assistance to the children of Mukuru impacted by the recent floods, serving porridge at 10 a.m. and lunch at 1 p.m. The initiative ran for six days but was interrupted by the President’s directive to reopen schools on May 13th, 2024.

The initiative initially focused on students aged 4 to 15 from our primary school but swiftly broadened its scope to include all children within the community. Remarkably, some children arrived with their infant siblings, the youngest being 9 months old, eagerly waiting for a meal. The program successfully provided meals for 1,500 children, prioritizing those who arrived with younger siblings first.

Dubbed "Food and Fun," the program allowed children to enjoy games in the school compound both before and after meals. This not only provided nourishment but also created a safe and enjoyable environment for children during this flooding crisis, particularly since schools had been indefinitely postponed. The children also got to enjoy educational themed movies aimed at better shaping their morals.

This isn't the first time Team Pankaj has partnered with the Ruben Centre. In 2020, we collaborated during the COVID-19 pandemic to distribute food to the community, offering relief during already trying times.

With an absolute zero food waste outcome, it's safe to say the program was a success. We thank Team Pankaj for their continued support and partnership to help the people of Mukuru. A special thank you goes to all teachers and Ruben Centre staff engaged in the “Food and Fun” program as well.

Through this initiative, the Ruben Centre continues to fortify itself as an Oasis of Hope to the people of Mukuru, providing security for children and offering a space where they can continue to learn and thrive despite the challenges posed by natural disasters.

By: Ashley Kagio

Edits: GB