From Swipe to Support: How The Dis-Chem Foundation Transforms Communities

Every swipe tells a story. For loyal Dis-Chem and Dis-Chem Baby City members, that simple action at the till sparks a ripple effect, changing lives across South Africa. Through The Dis-Chem Foundation, these moments of loyalty transform into acts of generosity, funding initiatives and organisations that address critical needs. Whether it’s providing clean water, supporting education, or combating hunger, the Foundation’s work is built on the collective power of community.?

“Not only do cardholders benefit personally from their cards, but every swipe counts because a percentage goes to The Dis-Chem Foundation. That’s how we are able to make a difference” shares Jacqueline Kahlberg , from the Foundation. From rural villages gaining access to water to children flourishing with proper nutrition, these initiatives showcase the tangible impact of small, everyday actions. Here’s a closer look at how your swipe turns purchases into life-changing opportunities.?

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Access to Healthcare: Turning Basic Needs into Life-Changing Impact?

Imagine living without access to clean water. Most of us take it for granted but for over 2,500 residents of Dixie Village, this was their reality. Long walks in search of water were a daily struggle, exposing families to waterborne illnesses and robbing children of time to focus on education. The Dis-Chem Foundation stepped in, installing 15 taps across the community. Today, families have access to clean, safe, easily accessible water, improving health, well-being, and opportunities for growth.?

By partnering with local leaders and prioritising sustainable solutions, the Foundation ensures projects like these continue to benefit communities for years to come.?

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Access to Nutrition: Feeding Bodies, Fuelling Dreams?

The slow violence of Malnutrition is a daily reality for many children in South Africa. Through meaningful, supportive partnerships, The Dis-Chem Foundation serves over 3.6 million Unity Meals annually to children in Early Childhood Development centres (ECD). For many, it’s the only meal they’ll receive that day. By combating malnutrition, the Foundation is giving them the ability to learn, play, and grow.?

Ubuhle Bezwe Children’s Home in Tembisa became the first recipient of The Dis-Chem Foundation’s innovative Hydroponic Garden. This initiative now provides the daily nutritional requirement (DNR), enhancing children’s and adults diets while also laying the groundwork for sustainable food solutions in the future. It’s a forward-thinking approach that addresses today’s challenges while planting seeds of hope for tomorrow.?

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Access to Education: Empowering Minds, Changing Lives?

Education is the gateway to opportunity, and The Dis-Chem Foundation is committed to unlocking that door for underserved communities. One standout example is a culinary training programme in Cape Town, where young people from disadvantaged backgrounds gain hands-on cooking skills, professional certifications, and internships at top-tier restaurants. With an 85% post-programme employment rate, this initiative transforms lives, providing not only a career but also the ability to support families and contribute to their communities.?

Recognising literacy as a critical building block, the Foundation also distributes books to ECD centres and children’s homes. By encouraging reading both at school and at home, these efforts aim to break the cycle of poverty and inspire a new generation of equipped learners.?

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Community Upliftment: Transforming Challenges into Opportunities?

The Dis-Chem Foundation’s initiatives touch all aspects of community life. Whether it’s installing dignity kitchens, supporting survivors of gender-based violence, or improving facilities at children’s homes, the Foundation works to make a meaningful impact in every project.?

Through its "Better Tomorrow" project, the Foundation launched mobile community buses to bring essential healthcare services directly to people who might otherwise go without. More than offering convenience, these buses offer a lifeline, bringing primary health care closer to those who need it most.?

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Building a Future of Impact, Together?

As The Dis-Chem Foundation looks to the future, its commitment to sustainable, meaningful change remains steadfast. Whether it’s expanding hydroponic gardens to more communities, training young minds with invaluable skills, introducing innovative healthcare solutions, to looking after our furry friends, the Foundation’s vision is clear: to uplift South Africans one initiative at a time.??

“If we can change one life, that change can spread to an entire community. That’s the kind of impact we strive for,” Jacqueline reflects. This progress would not be possible without the collective efforts of our loyal customers, dedicated staff, and corporate partners. With every swipe of a Dis-Chem or Dis-Chem Baby City Loyalty Card, you’re part of a larger mission – one that turns small, everyday actions into extraordinary transformations. Together, we’re building a healthier, brighter South Africa, one step at a time.?

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