'Pap Mansion': One woman's act of kindness that became a community lifeline

For more than two decades, Barbra Kavita has run a community feeding initiative in Walvis Bay’s Kuisebmond neighbourhood that has become a lifeline for hundreds of vulnerable children.

Known locally as ‘Pap Mansion’, the initiative began around 2004 as a simple act of kindness from her home and has since grown into a programme serving more than 300 children each week with hot meals, basic care and emotional support.

Kavita, a school administrator at Kuisebmond Secondary School, is regarded as a mother figure by many children in the community.

With no formal funding or structure, Kavita began by preparing small portions of pap for those in need.

As the number of children grew, her home gradually became a safe space where children could access food and care. Today, Pap Mansion is a recognised community support point that provides not only meals but also clothing, stationery and a sense of belonging.

The organisation’s mission is rooted in the philosophy that "no child should go to bed hungry".

“We are addressing hunger and food insecurity, a sense of belonging and the restoration of dignity in the community, especially among children," Kavita said.

Beyond food, Pap Mansion offers homework support and creative activities such as dance and poetry, as well as seasonal programmes including Christmas celebrations and back-to-school drives.

Over the years, Kavita has seen significant impact in the community.

Children who once arrived malnourished and withdrawn now appear healthier, more confident, and better focused in school.

“I have seen children who used to look thin and withdrawn now smiling and playing after a meal," she said.

The initiative has also inspired former beneficiaries to return as volunteers and donors, strengthening community bonds.

However, the work is not without challenges.

Pap Mansion operates entirely on donations, which makes sustainability difficult.

“The biggest challenge is the lack of consistent funding. We have no source of income and rely entirely on donations and sponsorships," Kavita noted.

Despite this, she continues to push forward, driven by faith and the needs of the children.

Looking ahead, Pap Mansion aims to improve stability through initiatives such as prepaid electricity systems and small income-generating projects like community WiFi.

Kavita encourages broader support, saying: “Others can support us through donations of food, clothing, school supplies, or financial contributions."