Ruff’s Kitchens is a charitable foundation set up to feed Zimbabwe’s vulnerable school children. We currently feed over 5000 children every school day, with an aim to increase this number. Together with your kind donations, we can achieve this goal.
Zimbabwe was once a flourishing nation, often referred to as the “breadbasket of Africa.” However, issues such as low employment, climate change and poor governance have had a severe impact on the country, forcing a large percentage of the population into poverty. With food already scarce, the issues surrounding hunger are further exacerbated by an ever-expanding population – and children are amongst the most affected.
It is not uncommon for Zimbabwe’s youth to arrive at school with empty stomachs. In some instances, the children may have made their long journey on foot, unsure of when their next meal may be. There is no food provided at school and no guarantee of a meal when they get home. These children are the future of Zimbabwe, therefore the hope for a positive future lays in their hands – which is why we want to do all we can to support them.
Ruff’s Kitchens was launched in April 2012 and is run by its founder, Jonathan Ruff, and Sharon Thompson from Zimbabwe’s Children. The charitable foundation currently supports 8 primary schools and 6 Early Childhood Development centres (ECDs), with each child receiving a nutritious, porridge-based meal packed with vitamins, minerals and energy.
As a result, the schools in Ruff’s Kitchens’ feeding programme have seen an average 50% rise in attendance. The children are happier, healthier and have higher energy levels, which in turn enhances their concentration and improves their learning. Just one simple meal each day can make a world of difference to their lives, which is why we’re so determined to increase our daily donations.
Ruff’s Kitchens manages every aspect of the program in order to ensure every penny is spent on feeding the children. We have personally sourced the food from a local supplier who then delivers it directly to the rural schools’ kitchens. It is vital that basic needs are met (health, diet, education and sanitation), and therefore hygiene is a priority. Similarly, training and a manual is provided to ensure that storage, preparation and exact portion quantity are each properly managed.
All equipment is supplied by Ruff’s Kitchens: this includes mixing pots, weighing scales, bowls, spoons, disinfectant and washing utensils. Our hard-working field officer, Peter, does weekly checks to ensure that everything is running smoothly.
Ruff’s Kitchens’ invaluable contribution to the health and well-being of Zimbabwe’s children has lasting benefits to the lives, education and health of local communities. Due to the positive impact already made by the charitiable foundation, there are plans to open more kitchens with an aim to feed over 10,000 children each day across 30 schools by 2021.
Together, we can change children’s lives.
