Hamba Bamba Funda (HBF) has received support from The Local Initiatives Fund of South Africa (LIFSA) to complete its relocation project, titled 'Strengthening Early Childhood Development through Collaborative Partnerships: Hamba Bamba Funda and Joy at Caroline Mavuso Daycare Centre'.
This funding is a lifeline for the organisation, allowing it to provide even greater support to caregivers and children in under-resourced communities, says HBF.
HBF says that this funding will enable it to relocate from its current premises in Dobsonville, 301 Elias Motsoaledi Road, Soweto, to 1390 B Dlamini Street, White City, Soweto. The new premises at Joy at Caroline Mavuso Daycare Centre will allow HBF to expand its services and support the community more effectively, reaching more mothers, families and parents specifically.
This is an opportunity to create lasting change and continue its mission of breaking cycles of poverty through high-quality early childhood education, adds the organisation.
HBF says that this project is dedicated to equipping caregivers with essential skills and ensuring children aged zero to two receive the strong educational foundation they deserve. Every step of this initiative is designed to empower families and uplift the wider community. This area faces significant challenges, including high unemployment rates and other social issues, where community support is needed.
Key project focus areas include:
- Relocation and Resource Sharing: Establish a new base within Joy at Caroline Mavuso Daycare Centre, fostering collaboration and shared resources.
- Programme Expansion: Introduce a dedicated baby class, toy library and weekly educational sessions.
- Teacher Development: Provide SETA-accredited training to enhance the skills and qualifications of caregivers.
- Community Engagement: Launch parent education programmes to strengthen caregiving knowledge and support.
- Research Collaboration: Partner with international academics from Germany on a 10-year research study focused on advancing early childhood education methodologies.
A Testament to Ongoing Support
This is not the first time LIFSA has supported HBF's mission. Their continued backing follows previous funding for 'Early Childhood Education Training for Parents / Guardians in Underprivileged Communities to Become SETA-Accredited Caregivers'. HBF says that this renewed support underscores the impact of its work and the urgent need for quality early childhood interventions.
Monja Boonzaier, Founding Director of HBF, says, "This funding is a game-changer for HBF and the families we serve. It means more children will have access to quality early education and more caregivers will receive the training they need to provide nurturing and effective learning environments. The ripple effect of this investment will be felt for generations to come."
With this new chapter, HBF concludes that it remains committed to transforming lives through education, training and unwavering community support.
For more information, visit www.hambabambafunda.org. You can also follow HBF on Facebook or on Instagram.
*Image courtesy of contributor