Join Empowering Eats in providing meals during Ramadaan

Empowering Eats is preparing for its biggest Ramadaan yet, estimated to start on Thursday, February 19.

The organisation aims to make 200 000 meals, serving over 30 communities every single day, with a different mosque benefiting each evening.

Over the past week, Empowering Eats, a volunteer-driven non-profit organisation, has been on the ground in Ottery, Lotus River, New Horizon, and the Egoli informal settlement.

“A simple pot of white fluffy rice and chicken curry, sponsored by one generous family, became far more than a meal. It became hope,” said chairperson Riaaz Davids, who founded the organisation.

“I watched as children waited patiently in line. When they tasted that curry, their faces lit up. One little voice whispered, ‘This is the best chicken curry I’ve had in a long time.’ For many of us, that’s just food. For them, it’s a memory, comfort and dignity,” he said.

Since its inception in 2019 during Ramadaan, Empowering Eats, based in Grassy Park, has grown from feeding 200 people to over 100 000 in Ramadaan 2025, with a target of 20 000 meals this year. “With our successful feeding in 2025, we are committed to conducting daily feeds in the heart of our communities in Parkwood, Grassy Park, and surrounding areas,” said Mr Davids.

“The reality is harsh. These families aren’t choosing between takeaways and home-cooked meals; they’re choosing between eating and going hungry. Hunger isn’t a story in the news - it’s right here in our communities,” added Mr Davids.

“If you want to contribute, remember: it doesn’t take millions to make a difference. It takes one decision. One pot. One act of kindness.”

Mr Davids appealed to families, small businesses, and large corporations.

"A donation of R80 can feed a person or give a child a full stomach tonight, restoring dignity to someone who feels forgotten," he said, adding that a contribution of R4 500 sponsors an entire pot of food for those in need.

In addition to daily meal projects, the organisation runs winter soup drives, community upliftment initiatives, youth counselling, and sports camps. During winter, soups are prepared for vulnerable people.

Empowering Eats also focuses on youth development and skills training to help break the cycle of poverty. “We work closely with Pelican High School, engaging troubled youth and giving them opportunities to grow into responsible adults,” said Mr Davids.

“Partner with Empowering Eats - help us feed hope."

To donate or get involved, call 083 200 6030 or 061 188 4193, email info@empoweringeats.org.za, or visit www.empoweringeats.org.za

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