Topsy SA reaches ~4,000 people each month through integrated programmes that connect early learning, health and nutrition.
Early Childhood Development (ECD)
A comprehensive early years initiative within the OVC Programme designed to give children the best start in life, covering physical, cognitive, social and language development.
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What we provide:
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Topsy Educational Resource Centre (central hub)
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27 early learning centres (all with rotational access to the hub)
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Regular health checks for ~2,000 children
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Training & continuous development for 88+ ECD practitioners (incl. principals)
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Monitoring & evaluation of training impact
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Support to 8 primary schools
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School‑linked gardens providing fresh produce for children and families
Why it matters
Children engaged in quality ECD are more likely to show improved social/emotional development, stay in school longer and increase earning potential later in life.​​​
Vegetable Gardens (Food Security)
“A child who has not eaten cannot learn.”
Topsy trains fieldworkers (with Food Gardens Foundation partners) who then coach families and communities. Start‑up seeds and tools are provided, with ongoing mentoring.​​
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Reach & impact:
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100+ communal gardens (many school‑linked)
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Fresh food to 6,000+ people monthly
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Individual home gardens improving family nutrition and resilience
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Food packs for the most vulnerable to support health and adherence (e.g., medication cannot be taken on an empty stomach)
