Giving 1500 Meals to Hungry Children in Addis: How to Get Involved

On October 15, we loaded our van with 150 kilos of wheat, 60 liters of oil, and 75 kilos of pasta.

The pasta alone will provide almost 1500 total meals for hungry children. And that was our goal. To feed as many children and families as possible, so that no one has to go to bed hungry. 

That’s why, on this warm Tuesday morning, we gathered up as many team members as we could spare, and headed to a local primary school– not too far from our hotel. The school is located in Bole Sub-City 3 (Woreda 3) and teaches students from first to sixth grade. 

Are There Hungry Children in Addis?

Through an Ethiopian government initiative, the children receive breakfast and lunch at school. This is extremely important, as research continually proves that kids who are well fed do significantly better in school than classmates who are malnourished and hungry. 

However, at this particular school, there were 30 beneficiaries identified by the Woreda (local government) as marginalized and unable to feed their children at home. This means that 52% of these children’s lives are spent hungry, not getting the critical vitamins, minerals, protein, and nutrients needed to support their growing brains and bodies.

“At least, 52% of these children’s lives are spent hungry”

According to the UN, undernutrition contributes to 45% of all deaths of those under 5 years old. It can start as early as the womb and lead to low cognition, educational performances, stunted body, and even death. 

Meeting the Families

Since the opening of our hotel, a little more than a year ago, we have regularly supported community programs.

However, this particular cause was so near and dear to our hearts that both the hotel and individual team members helped donate so that each of the 30 families received:

• 5 kg of wheat
• 2 liters of cooking oil
• 2.5 kg of pasta

When we arrived at the school, we were able to meet the families receiving the food. Their eyes lit up, and we knew right away how important this donation was to them. 

“It was a really special time for all of us. Both for the families and especially our team, I don’t think we’ll forget this day,” said one of our team members.

Our Community Initiatives 

Our hotel, Best Western Plus Addis Ababa, really lives our Corporate Social Responsibility. It’s not something we do because we have to do it. It’s something that our team actively believes in and participates in. 

Over the past year, we have also helped the elderly at Gergeseno, supported “Sile-Enat” Children Support Center, participated in blood donation and other support. 

Get Involved

For anyone, both Ethiopians and Foreigners, Individuals and Companies, we highly recommend getting involved in projects like this as well. 

If you have a project that needs help or if you would like to reach our team member who coordinated this event, please contact Genet at genet.woldu@bwplusaddisababa.com .