Learning new skills through volunteering

Helen is a dedicated volunteer for Mary’s Meals’ school feeding program at Nkhoto Primary School in Zambia. With her own son attending the school, her personal connection to the program is strong. 

She begins her day at 4am, attending to household chores before arriving at school around 6am. At school, she cleans the kitchen, washes pots, and prepares porridge for the students. “I come to cook because I know the children are helped, including my son,” she explains. “The program helps children not to be hungry while in school.” 

Helen has gained important skills and knowledge through volunteering, and she values the support provided by the program, particularly in improving food preparation practices and hygiene. “I was taught about the way they cook this porridge, how to serve, dress, and maintain hygiene standards,” she says. 

But it is the children’s response to the meals that Helen finds the most rewarding: “The best experience is when the children receive their porridge. They become happy and active. The school environment is just different.” She also recognizes the importance of continuing the program. “The children would suffer if the program came to an end. They rely on the porridge.” 

Recently, Mary’s Meals helped the school upgrade its old rocket stoves to new brick stoves. Helen welcomes this improvement, noting: “I am happy about this development. The [brick stoves] are strong and a permanent feature to help in the cooking.” 

Across Zambia, hundreds of volunteers rise early with the sun to prepare and serve meals to children across the country. Mary’s Meals’ work would not be possible without their commitment to the school feeding program, and their dedication to giving children hope of a brighter future.