About us

Group of children outdoors holding gift bags and smiling, with one girl raising her arms joyfully.

Cares KZN began over 20 years ago as a small outreach, caring for, feeding, and clothing a handful of people in need. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Durban experienced unprecedented hardship. Thousands lost their loved ones, jobs, homes, and sense of security.
Gender-Based Violence (GBV) escalated drastically. In response, we began distributing food parcels and offering support to women and children in affected communities.

This period revealed the urgent need for a structured, vision-led nonprofit organisation—one equipped to address large-scale crises.
From that moment, Cares KZN evolved into what it is today: a registered non-profit company committed to building resilient communities across KwaZulu-Natal.
Our work intensified during the 2021 civil unrest. Our operating base in Riverhorse Park was at the heart of the looting and violence. This became a defining moment—people were not only losing possessions, but hope. We knew we had to do more, Cares KZN was registered as a non-profit Company.
Today, Cares KZN actively operates across greater Durban, from Ballito to Amanzimtoti, and inland into Inanda, Ntuzuma, and KwaMashu.

OUR VISION


We are driven by a mission to uplift communities through compassionate care, education,
and sustainable empowerment.

1. Disaster Relief

We respond swiftly to natural disasters, civil unrest, and chronic poverty by offering immediate
support and long-term recovery efforts. Our interventions include:

  • Food aid
  • Blanket distribution
  • Access to clean water

2. Food Security

Food is foundational to community stability. We run:

  • Feeding schemes for children and youth
  • Emergency food parcel distribution
  • Skills training and income-generation initiatives

3. Community Service

In collaboration with local hospitals, law enforcement, and NGOs, we:

  • Revamp trauma centres for GBV and rape survivors
  • Provide education and referral services for victims
  • Conduct mobile clinics offering basic healthcare

4. Life Skills & Orientation

We empower individuals with practical training, including:

  • Self-care and hygiene education
  • CV building and interview preparation
  • Workshops in schools promoting responsible leadership,
    healthy self-image, and gender-based awareness

5. Early Childhood Development (ECD)

We support and enhance crèches in under-resourced communities by:

  • Upgrading facilities
  • Offering teacher training and development

Be Part of the Movement

Having a passion for caring for others has always been at the core of who I am. Cares' mission of loving people has given me the opportunity to live out that passion and fulfil my dreams. Being part of Cares KZN has truly transformed and enriched my life.
Anonymous
Being involved in Cares KZN gives me the opportunity to be practical and show love in Action ❤
Chantall
It gives my life meaning and purpose to see people's lives changed.
Yvonne
Being involved in Cares always makes me feel enriched, blessed, and purposeful. I love sharing love, reminding people of their true DNA, and bringing hope into their lives.
Rene Fourie
I'm grateful for the platform of Cares KZN and  to enrich people's lives.
Selvie
Children holding up food packages and school bags with a blue building in the background.

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