Founded in 2010 by Karen Oliveira who, when she was told that children at a nearby school were stealing food because they were hungry, emailed everyone she knew asking those who were not working to join her in preparing lunch for the pupils.   Seven women showed up on the first morning and together they made 200 sandwiches.

Since then, Mothers That Care has grown from providing only sandwiches to now distributing a far more diverse range of goods to wherever the need arises. These donations are made to crèches, schools, safe havens and charitable organisations in areas such as Blouberg, Melkbos, Table View, Milnerton, Parklands and the Joe Slovo informal settlement.

Mothers That Care volunteers come together each week on a Wednesday at the Portalia Pizzeria, Hadjidakis Centre, 45 Raats Drive, Parklands, between 09h30 and 11h30, to collect sandwiches and goods that are dropped off by generous residents from the nearby areas, from where they are distributed.

An alternative drop-of time is on Tuesdays, also at  Portalia Pizzeria, between 12h00 and 20h00.

In addition to providing food and clothing, Mothers That Care volunteers also work tirelessly in knitting and crocheting blankets and beanies to help keep the Cape cold away. Knitted squares are made into blankets and soft toys are added to the bundle so each child has something to call their own. Local businesses have also been generous in the donation of food and money.

Karen is amazed by how the organisation has grown and had this to say: “I am so grateful to all our volunteers and donors who are being so generous with their time and donations. We feel privileged to help others but it’s only a drop in the ocean.”