ARMS OF LOVE was born out of a passion to help those suffering from hunger and destitution in South Africa, especially in the midst of the high unemployment rates that have left many families unable to provide for themselves. The founders of ARMS OF LOVE, having retired from the corporate world and relocated to George, now run the organization from their home without taking any salaries, ensuring that all donations received go towards fulfilling the mission of the organization.
The organization's primary objective is to address the basic human right to food and education for everyone, especially those living in impoverished communities. The high levels of unemployment have resulted in an increase in makeshift feeding schemes operated by "Good Samaritans" within the community. ARMS OF LOVE supports these feeding schemes by providing fully equipped outdoor kitchens with gas stoves, working surfaces, cupboards, wash basins, pots and cooking utensils, and necessary produce.
ARMS OF LOVE has evolved its focus over time, recognizing the need for after-school homework centers for children who rely on the feeding schemes for their meals. The organization has expanded its reach to assist early learning centers in the informal settlements to provide children with two meals a day and early childhood development programs. ARMS OF LOVE aims to provide homework facilities to each learning center, so school-going children can come after school to receive a meal and homework assistance from tutors.
ARMS OF LOVE's vision is to eradicate hunger in South Africa by perfecting their concept in the region and then expanding it to other parts of the country in the future. They also aim to teach communities how to become self-sufficient and live off the land. The organization's mission is to address the basic needs of the poor in the informal settlements in and around George in the Western Cape of South Africa by establishing partnerships with businesses, individuals, and churches, identifying individuals who have a passion for helping their communities, and ensuring that 100% of donations are used to meet the needs of the recipients.
ARMS OF LOVE's efforts to address hunger in South Africa are commendable. They have recognized the need to empower communities and provide a sustainable solution to the problem of hunger. Their dedication to ensuring that all donations go towards fulfilling their mission is a testament to their commitment to the cause.