Durban Children’s Homes Struggle as Subsidies Stay Frozen

Children’s homes in Durban are finding creative ways to feed residents as government subsidies remain unchanged for six years despite steep food inflation.

The Aryan Benevolent Home (ABH) in Chatsworth and St Monica’s Children’s Home in Bluff both report growing financial strain but say they refuse to compromise on nutrition.

Food Gardens Feed 102 Children at ABH

The ABH Children’s Home, which houses 102 children aged 3 to 17, launched a food garden to supplement meals.

Spokesperson Amraj Dursan said the initiative helps offset high food prices and ensures residents receive balanced meals planned by dietitians.

Key points from ABH’s approach:

• Fresh produce grown on-site reduces food costs.

• Volunteers train staff and children to maintain the garden.

• Partnerships with local communities and businesses provide donations and discounts.

“These strategies help us stretch every resource while keeping meal quality high,” said Dursan.

St Monica’s Relies on Fundraising and Donor Support

At St Monica’s Children’s Home, which cares for 84 children, staff run frequent fundraising drives to keep up with food expenses.

Director Althea Govender said the frozen subsidy makes it difficult to serve five daily mealsbreakfast, school lunch, after-school lunch, a snack, and supper.

She credited corporate donors and campaigns like KFC’s Add Hope for helping supply perishables and dry goods.

“But it’s not enough,” she said. “Food costs rise monthly while our funding stays the same. Saying there are no funds for six years is unacceptable.”

Call for Government Action

Both homes urged the Department of Social Development to review and increase subsidies for child welfare organisations.

They warned that without intervention, vulnerable children risk going hungry despite the best efforts of caregivers.

Durban’s children’s homes have shown resilience through gardening, partnerships, and community outreach, but the lack of government support leaves their sustainability in question.