​In a heartwarming effort to foster self-reliance and financial literacy among youth, the Gauteng Department of Social Development, Absa South Africa, and Urban Harvest have joined forces to establish a food garden at the Desmond Tutu Child and Youth Care Centre (CYCC). This initiative, launched on April 23, 2025, aims to provide children with practical skills as they transition out of institutional care.

The garden, integrated into the existing Independent Living Project at Tsosoloso Special School, will serve dual purposes: enhancing the nutritional program and equipping children with income-generating skills. Under the guidance of Child and Youth Care Workers and Social Workers, children will gain hands-on experience in various trades, preparing them for independent living.

Urban Harvest, known for designing and managing high-quality food gardens, trained volunteers to assist in the garden's construction, which began on March 25, 2025. The project was spearheaded by Ms. Mnisi and Mr. Ben Gert, Managing Director of Urban Harvest Edible Gardens.
 
Head of Institution Ms. Mpumi Luthuli emphasized the program's impact: "This program will empower our children with skills when they go home, and we will also open bank accounts for them so that they have money when they leave."
 
The launch event saw enthusiastic participation from Tsosoloso School learners, who showcased their talents through dance, poetry, and singing. To ensure the garden's sustainability, five representatives have been appointed to oversee its development, with Urban Harvest providing ongoing support for 24 months.
 
This collaborative effort marks a significant step towards nurturing self-sufficient, financially literate young individuals ready to thrive in their communities.