Nourishment for Okahandja’s vulnerable
In the informal settlements of Okahandja, hope shines in the form of Elizabeth Garoes, a dedicated relief teacher.
Known for her commitment to the children and families in her area, Elizabeth has spent over 30 years living in Okahandja, witnessing firsthand the struggles faced by the community. She launched a soup kitchen in 2020 that feeds over 70 children, along with their mothers, grandparents and those living with disabilities.
The soup kitchen, born out of Elizabeth’s deep concern for the well-being of the community's children, operates under challenging circumstances. Sometimes Elizabeth funds the kitchen from her pocket; other times, she receives help from the Samaritan Network church.
Yet, the need remains overwhelming. “It is sad to see kids sleep in class,” Elizabeth says, her voice filled with emotion. “When I ask them why they are sleeping so early, they tell me, ‘Teacher, I haven’t eaten for two days.’ That breaks my heart.”
Elizabeth, who is a relief teacher, earns N$100 a day when she fills in for teachers on leave, but the payment is delayed until the 20th of the month, a recent change from the previous weekly pay schedule.
Don’t give up
Despite this, she continues to pour her energy into her community. She has also founded a group called “Do Not Give Up” for girls aged between 13 and 14, where she discusses teenage pregnancy, encourages them not to give up on life, and leads Bible studies.
For the boys, she focuses on nurturing their hidden talents, providing them with a positive outlet and direction.
Her work extends beyond just feeding; she is often seen helping with homework and organising activities that keep children engaged and off the streets. In Sweet Valley, where she often cooks over an open fire due to electricity shortages, she is in dire need of a water tank, big pots and sponsors to sustain her efforts.
“Children really suffer in Okahandja,” she says. “Most of their parents drink a lot and forget about their children. The demand to feed children in Okahandja is high, but I believe that keeping them fed is one way to keep them out of the streets.”
With the help of volunteers, she continues to feed and nurture those who need it most, hoping for better days when resources will be more readily available to support her mission.
Known for her commitment to the children and families in her area, Elizabeth has spent over 30 years living in Okahandja, witnessing firsthand the struggles faced by the community. She launched a soup kitchen in 2020 that feeds over 70 children, along with their mothers, grandparents and those living with disabilities.
The soup kitchen, born out of Elizabeth’s deep concern for the well-being of the community's children, operates under challenging circumstances. Sometimes Elizabeth funds the kitchen from her pocket; other times, she receives help from the Samaritan Network church.
Yet, the need remains overwhelming. “It is sad to see kids sleep in class,” Elizabeth says, her voice filled with emotion. “When I ask them why they are sleeping so early, they tell me, ‘Teacher, I haven’t eaten for two days.’ That breaks my heart.”
Elizabeth, who is a relief teacher, earns N$100 a day when she fills in for teachers on leave, but the payment is delayed until the 20th of the month, a recent change from the previous weekly pay schedule.
Don’t give up
Despite this, she continues to pour her energy into her community. She has also founded a group called “Do Not Give Up” for girls aged between 13 and 14, where she discusses teenage pregnancy, encourages them not to give up on life, and leads Bible studies.
For the boys, she focuses on nurturing their hidden talents, providing them with a positive outlet and direction.
Her work extends beyond just feeding; she is often seen helping with homework and organising activities that keep children engaged and off the streets. In Sweet Valley, where she often cooks over an open fire due to electricity shortages, she is in dire need of a water tank, big pots and sponsors to sustain her efforts.
“Children really suffer in Okahandja,” she says. “Most of their parents drink a lot and forget about their children. The demand to feed children in Okahandja is high, but I believe that keeping them fed is one way to keep them out of the streets.”
With the help of volunteers, she continues to feed and nurture those who need it most, hoping for better days when resources will be more readily available to support her mission.
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