1 in 3 South African Children Lack Learning Materials – Penreach is Changing That

South Africa – Imagine growing up without books to spark your imagination or toys to stimulate your development. For millions of children in South Africa, this is a harsh reality. 1 in 3 children lack access to age-appropriate learning materials, leaving them without the critical resources needed for Early Childhood Development and literacy.

This is why Penreach is stepping up to change the narrative. Through its latest campaign, the organisation aims to raise R150 000 to support over 200 Penreach Reading Camps and Toy Libraries, ensuring that children in underserved communities have access to the tools they need to learn, grow, and dream.

A Crisis We Can’t Ignore

The statistics are staggering. Studies show that 78% of Grade 4 learners in South Africa cannot read for meaning, a crisis rooted in limited early childhood exposure to books and educational toys. Research has also proven that children who lack access to stimulating play materials are at a significant disadvantage when they start school, often struggling to catch up for the rest of their academic journey.

“Many of the children we work with have never owned a book or a toy designed to develop their learning skills,” says Johanri de Jager, Head of Communication and Partnerships at Penreach. “These resources are not luxuries – they are essentials. They shape a child’s ability to read, comprehend, and succeed in life.”

How You Can Help

Penreach is calling on individuals, companies, schools, and organisations across South Africa to take action. You can help by:

 Donating to the cause – Every contribution helps provide books and toys to children in need. Donate now.

 Corporate and School Involvement – Companies and schools can set up “Donation Stations” at their offices/schools where employees/scholars can contribute new or pre-loved books and toys. Penreach will facilitate collection and distribution.

 Spreading the word – Share the campaign on social media, talk to friends and colleagues, and help create awareness about this urgent issue.

 Acts of kindness – Whether it’s donating, volunteering, or simply being part of the movement, small actions lead to big changes.

Be the Reason a Child Thrives

Education is the foundation of opportunity. Without books and toys, millions of South African children will continue to fall behind before they even get a fair start. This is a crisis we can fix – together.

Join the movement today. Donate now: https://www.givengain.com/campaign/1-in-3-kids-lack-learning-materials–help-us-change-that

For corporate partnerships or to set up a donation station at your company or school, contact Johanri de Jager at johanri@penreach.co.za

#PenreachCares #InvestInOurFuture #BooksChangeLives

More about Toy Libraries and Reading Camps and Toy Libraries:

Penreach Toy Library Volunteer of the Year 2024: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NZGH3H4xM7I

Penreach Reading Camp Volunteer of the Year 2024: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fiOl6mIQv2M

Penreach is an NGO and a social impact organisation working towards educational excellence in disadvantaged rural communities in 5 provinces in South Africa (Mpumalanga, Limpopo, Gauteng, Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal). Penreach was established in 1991 to provide access to quality education and is known for its local knowledge and expertise on grassroot level.

Media Contact:
Johanri de Jager
Communication and Partnership Manager, Penreach
johanri@penreach.co.za