WOF
Kids
Who we are
THE WOF KIDS PROGRAM
Nurturing Hope, Honoring Heroes, and Building Brighter Futures
Inspired by the enduring legacy of Nelson Mandela, Working on Fire launched the WOF Kids Program in 2018 — a testament to the belief that every child deserves care, opportunity, and the chance to thrive.
What began as a heartfelt initiative to provide Care Packages to the children of WOF firefighters and High Altitude Team rope technicians — participants in the Expanded Public Works Programme who protect South Africa’s landscapes — quickly became something more profound.
Working on Fire recognized that supporting communities meant not only safeguarding the environment but also honoring the brave men and women on the frontlines by uplifting their families.
Across the country, young faces lit up with joy as personalized care packages arrived, each box filled with essentials and small treasures, lovingly donated by WOF staff, management, partners, and compassionate individuals and companies. These gifts were more than just items — they were symbols of hope, love, and recognition for the sacrifices made by WOF families.
Over the years, the WOF Kids Program has blossomed, evolving to meet the broader socio-economic needs of WOF children and other vulnerable youth in the communities we serve. Today, it encompasses a range of initiatives designed to empower children, foster resilience, and inspire dreams:
- WOF Kids Care Packages — Spreading joy and easing financial burdens during the festive season.
- WOF Kids Resilient Minds Program — Promoting mental, emotional, and social well-being.
- WOF Trail Blazers Program — Guiding boys and girls on a path of self-discovery, life skills, and community service.
At its heart, the WOF Kids Program is about more than giving — it’s about nurturing potential, strengthening communities, and creating a legacy of hope for future generations. Through education, life skills, and unwavering support, we equip WOF Kids with the tools they need to rise above challenges and build a brighter, more promising future.
Because when we lift children up, we uplift entire communities — and together, we ignite change.
WOF Kids Care Packages
WOF Kids Care Packages are a cherished part of the WOF Kids Project, providing Christmas gifts and essential educational supplies to children each year.
This annual initiative helps ease the financial burden many parents face during December and January, ensuring every child not only experiences the magic of Christmas but also starts the school year with the necessary tools for success. Care packages are thoughtfully tailored to suit each age group, from newborns to 18-year-olds.
While many of our WOF staff, management, and partners contribute generously to this drive, the growing number of children we aim to support means we need even more willing hearts to join us.
Help us spread joy and make a difference! By donating an annual care package to a WOF Kid, your kindness can brighten a child’s life and help us reach even more children in need.
A typical R300 care package includes:
- School stationery
- Toiletries and a baby blanket
- A Snack pack
- A Christmas gift – either clothing, toys or books.
Together, we can make the season brighter and help lay the foundation for a hopeful, successful year ahead.
WOF Kids Resilient Roots Program
The WOF Kids Resilient Roots Program provides vital social and psychological support to promote the mental, emotional, and social well-being of WOF Kids.
By nurturing their individuality and addressing the unique challenges young people face, the program strengthens family bonds and deepens community connections.
Participants engage in enriching educational outings to museums, libraries, aquariums, and heritage sites, learning the value of history and its impact on life.
Reading is actively encouraged to broaden their knowledge and spark curiosity. Additionally, interactive workshops tackle important topics, equipping children with essential life skills and fostering personal growth.
Key Focus Areas:
- Healthy Relationships: Promoting gender equality, kindness, and anti-bullying practices.
- Self-Esteem & Self-Care: Encouraging confidence and emotional well-being.
- Children’s Rights & Family Dynamics: Understanding rights within the context of healthy, supportive relationships.
- Body Awareness & Safety: Educating children about their bodies and personal boundaries.
- Abuse Awareness & Prevention: Raising awareness and empowering children to recognize and report abuse.
- Economic & Financial Literacy: Teaching practical money management and building a foundation for future independence.
- Environmental Awareness & Nature Connection: Fostering respect for nature and a sense of environmental responsibility.
By providing access to educational tools, life skills, and emotional support, the WOF Kids Resilient Roots Program empowers children to navigate life’s challenges, build resilience, and create brighter, more promising futures.
WOF Kids Trail Blazers: Empowering the Next Generation
Launched in 2019, WOF Trail Blazers is a dynamic mentorship program for boys and girls aged 10 to 18, designed to inspire confidence, resilience, and community spirit. Guided by experienced mentors — including WOF crew leaders, community members, and role models — the program provides a safe space for self-discovery, practical learning, and personal growth.
Participants develop essential life skills, from fixing appliances and handling basic repairs to navigating peer pressure, building self-esteem, and understanding personal well-being. A two-day camp offers educational tours highlighting South Africa’s history and tribal roots, empowering activities, skill-sharing workshops, and storytelling around a fire, where oral tradition fosters moral growth and intergenerational dialogue.
Trail Blazers encourages selflessness through participation in thematic events like Mandela Day, Youth Month, Family Day, and Heritage Day, with scouts giving back to their communities by donating goods, time, and support.
By blending practical skills with emotional intelligence, and individual growth with community service, WOF Trail Blazers equips young people with the tools to face life’s challenges, chase their dreams, and become compassionate, capable leaders of tomorrow.
WOF Kids Impact
Year | No of Packages | Amount Raised | Cost Per Package |
|---|---|---|---|
Totals | 10238 | R296,986.91 | R29.01 |
2020 | 2381 | R35,624.16 | R14.96 |
2021 | 1780 | R35,695.00 | R20.05 |
2022 | 1875 | R57,342.75 | R30.58 |
2023 | 2233 | R106,419.00 | R47.66 |
2024 | 1969 | R61,906.00 | R31.44 |