For the past 17 years, the Take My Hand Foundation has quietly transformed the lives of vulnerable women and children across Durban through acts of kindness, compassion and unwavering community support.

One of the organisation’s most impactful initiatives takes place every week at the Quarry Road West Informal Settlement, where volunteers provide meals and essential support to underprivileged children, many of whom face hunger and hardship on a daily basis.

Co-founded by Ingrid Ansari, the non-profit organisation focuses primarily on assisting women and children through the provision of food, clothing, toiletries, rape care kits and other basic necessities.

Ansari said she developed a special connection with the children of Quarry Road West after witnessing the severe challenges they face.

“When I first started coming here, many of the children had little more than a T-shirt to wear. They are incredibly vulnerable, and that’s why we continue to come back every week. Every child deserves dignity, care and hope,” she said.

Beyond providing meals, the foundation regularly distributes clean clothing, washing powder, toothpaste and other household essentials to families in need.

It also hosts an annual Christmas party for more than 100 children from informal settlements across Durban.

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The foundation’s weekly feeding programme has been made possible through the consistent generosity of community-minded businesses.

Ansari paid special tribute to Yebo Eggs, whose ongoing donations of eggs and other food items have become a cornerstone of the initiative.

“They have supported us faithfully for years. Every Friday I collect donations from them, and because of their generosity we are able to provide children with nutritious food. Some of the larger families even receive an entire tray of eggs,” she said. She also acknowledged the invaluable support of Sheiks Wire Works, which has consistently assisted the foundation’s humanitarian efforts. Ansari believes many more businesses can play a role in uplifting vulnerable communities.

“We’re not asking people for money. We simply ask them to partner with us through donations of clothing, food or other essentials. Together we can make a real difference in the lives of these children,” she said.

Through the dedication of its volunteers and the generosity of its supporters, the Take My Hand Foundation continues to offer hope, dignity and practical assistance to hundreds of vulnerable families across Durban every week.