Seed 2 Harvest is addressing hunger challenges on the Cape Flats. Its mission involves assisting residents in setting up household gardens, aiming to empower the community to grow their own food.
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The organisation has been in existence since 2020, led by Joanie Fredericks and Shaun Cairns, who partnered with the Combating Household Hunger 2024 programme to amplify its impact.
Recognising the limitations of feeding schemes as a temporary solution during the COVID-19 pandemic, the focus shifted to combating household hunger on a long-term basis. In late 2023, discussions centred around easing the strain on food queues and instilling dignity in households.
To secure sponsorship from the Angel Network, the initiative plans to equip each eligible household in Tafelsig with a starter kit every three months for the first four growing cycles.
The kit includes six organic seed varieties, a three-month supply of organic fertilizers, pesticides, fungicides, bio-stimulants, a measuring cup, a growing guide, a pressure sprayer, as well as essential gardening tools.
Qualifying requirements:
Qualifying households, with incomes below R4 500 per month, are required to have proof of growing experience or a willingness to learn, access to a minimum of 1m x 2m space, a water source, and a commitment to attending training sessions.
The application process involves attending a briefing workshop, completing an application form, a site visit, providing a copy of ID, an active WhatsApp number, and a dedication to the project.
Addressing water security concerns, the initiative incorporates Biochar, a water-retaining charcoal, to enhance water retention in the soil, saving up to 80% of water.
A monthly community thinktank session is planned to sustain motivation, encourage participants, and foster a growing network within the community.
Shaun Cairns emphasised the importance of lifting people psychologically, especially those facing dire circumstances. With aspirations to impact at least 50% of the Tafelsig community, the programme appeals to additional donors to support more households in the area.
Despite a surge in applications, Cairns stressed the urgency of meeting the overwhelming need. The aim is to generate a surplus of organically grown vegetables, enabling households to sustain themselves and combat hunger effectively.
The initiative believes that starting these organic gardens with Seed 2 Harvest kits will significantly contribute to alleviating food insecurity in the community.
If you would like to support the initiative, visit Seed 2 Harvest
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