Duduza – Healing Lives NPO has distributed over 18 286 Easter eggs to children and organisations across Ekurhuleni.
The distribution started on April 2.
Healing Lives donated 90 boxes of Easter eggs at Nigel Caring Community and Emmause Community Centre on April 8.
NPO founder, Sibusiso Radebe, said the initiative was sparked by noticing that many communities, children have the joy and privilege of Easter egg hunts, something often taken for granted.
“We recognised that children from less fortunate backgrounds deserve to experience that same joy and excitement.
“For me personally, giving back brings a unique sense of fulfilment.
“Over the past 12 years, I have witnessed how even the smallest gestures can make a lasting impact on a child’s life,” explained Radebe.
“Seeing their faces light up reminds me that hope can be restored in simple yet powerful ways. Each Easter egg we give is more than just chocolate; it is a message.”
He cited that the eggs serve as a small poem, written in chocolate, sealed with compassion, and shared in the true spirit of Ubuntu.
This year, the NPO reached communities in Duduza, Tsakani, Kwa-Thema, Heidelberg, Vosloorus, Benoni, Boksburg, Germiston, and Brakpan.
“These are communities and organisations we have consistently supported since the founding of Healing Lives in 2014, alongside our other outreach programmes.
“Our approach is rooted in building long-term relationships rather than one-time interventions.
“Many of the children we serve do not often experience moments of celebration or receive treats,” he said.
Donations were made at Nigel Caring Community. Photo: Nomsa Ngubeni
Healing Lives believes that children should be allowed to simply be children through laughter, play, and enjoy life’s small joys.
Each year, the NPO aims to offer more than a treat; they offer a moment of happiness, a memory of kindness, and a taste of love.
Radebe added that the responses that they have been receiving from organisations that they have reached out to is overwhelmingly joyful.
“The children are always excited, and seeing their reactions is incredibly heartwarming. Moments like these remind us why we do what we do.
“Our goal is to bring smiles, joy, and hope, to ensure that every child feels seen, celebrated, and loved,” he added.
Beyond distributing Easter eggs, Healing Lives focuses on creating meaningful experiences for the children.
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“We organise fun-filled activities, games, and interactive sessions that allow us to spend quality time bonding with children.
“Depending on available sponsorship, we also provide warm meals and distribute donations such as clothing and essential items received from the community,” he said.
Like many community-driven initiatives, the NPO faces financial and logistical challenges.
“Limited funding meant that some elements, such as hiring an Easter Bunny for entertainment, were not possible this year.
“Additionally, coordinating travel across the East Rand and managing time constraints can be demanding, especially for a youth-led organisation balancing multiple responsibilities,” elaborated Radebe.
Radebed thanked this year’s partners, mentioning Round Table Golden East 181 and Craig View Veterinary Clinic.
Nigel Caring Community supervisor and Social Auxiliary Worker, Sibongile Makhonjwa said the organisation’s recent Easter egg donation initiative means a great deal to the children they serve.
“Many of the children come from disadvantaged backgrounds, where families often rely solely on child support grants and have little to no stable income.
“These donations bring joy and a sense of inclusion to the children. For many of them, experiences like receiving Easter eggs are rare, so it makes them feel seen, valued, and cared for,” she said.
Nigel Caring Community supports children who face various social and economic challenges. The organisation provides daily care and runs structured programmes to improve children’s well-being.
These include after-school support such as homework supervision from Monday to Friday, as well as social and behavioural change programmes designed to guide children positively as they grow.
Makhonjwa highlighted that the organisation accommodates children from as young as early childhood up to 24 years old, offering continuous support through different stages of development.
Despite their impactful work, the organisation faces several challenges.
“One of the main needs is transportation, as some children travel from surrounding areas such as Tsakani.
Children receiving Easter eggs. Photo: Nomsa Ngubeni
“Reliable transport would make it easier for children to access the centre and its programmes. Additionally, there is a strong need for school uniforms and basic necessities. Some children come to us without proper school uniforms or essential items needed for school,” she said.
Makhonjwa mentioned that support in this area would make a big difference in the children’s confidence and ability to participate fully in school.
The organisation also ensures that children receive meals. During school days, they are provided with lunch, while during school holidays, the programme extends to include both breakfast and lunch, ensuring that no child goes hungry.
Makhonjwa expressed heartfelt gratitude to organisations and donors who continue to support their initiatives.
“We are truly thankful for the kindness and generosity shown to our children. These Easter egg contributions will uplift them and remind them that they are not forgotten.
“We encourage more organisations and individuals to come on board and support our work so we can continue making a difference in their lives,” concluded social auxiliary worker and supervisor, Lorraine Dladla.
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