Cantine Solidaire
UNITED NATIONS SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS
Date completed:
June 2026
Focus:
Social Justice
Funds Raised:
₨77,314
NPO:
Anges du Soleil
Project Overview
The Cantine Solidaire project aimed to empower mothers of children enrolled in the Enfants de Demain educational programme by creating sustainable economic opportunities through the establishment of a solidarity canteen.
With the support received from I61 Foundation’s funding partner, Anges du Soleil successfully renovated and equipped its kitchen facilities, transforming them into a safe, functional and welcoming space. This renovated kitchen now serves as the foundation for the future operation of the solidarity canteen while also supporting educational and community activities.
Although the solidarity canteen has not yet become fully operational, the women’s empowerment component has recently been launched. Five mothers have begun participating in Mauritian cooking workshops with expatriates, allowing them to gain practical experience in catering, hospitality and cultural exchange while preparing for future income-generating activities.
As an additional outcome beyond the original project objectives, the renovated kitchen is also being used to deliver cooking classes for approximately 25 children and adolescents enrolled in the educational programme, as well as practical life-skills activities for two out-of-school teenagers.
Background of NPO
Description of Project
The project was implemented in line with the objectives outlined in the proposal and focused on establishing the necessary foundations for the future operation of the cantine solidaire.
Key activities implemented included:
- Renovation and equipping of the kitchen facilities.
- Purchase and installation of essential kitchen equipment.
- Development of hygiene and operational procedures.
- Identification and mobilisation of participating mothers.
- Launch of initial Mauritian cooking workshops with expatriate participants.
- Educational cooking sessions for children and adolescents using the renovated kitchen.
Implementation was carried out in phases, beginning with infrastructure improvements, followed by operational preparation and the gradual introduction of practical cooking activities.
Project Impact
The project successfully transformed the kitchen into a vibrant community space that now serves as a platform for education, skills development and women’s empowerment.
The renovated facilities have enabled Anges du Soleil to introduce regular cooking classes for approximately 25 children aged 6 to 16 every Tuesday and Thursday afternoon. These sessions, while not part of the original project proposal, were introduced to maximise the use of the renovated kitchen until the solidarity canteen becomes fully operational. Through these activities, children develop practical cooking skills, learn about nutrition and hygiene, and build confidence through teamwork and participation.
Similarly, two out-of-school teenagers now participate in daily kitchen activities where they develop practical life skills, improve their autonomy and benefit from a structured learning environment. This represents an additional positive outcome beyond the project’s initial objectives.
The women’s empowerment component has recently entered its implementation phase. Five mothers from the Enfants de Demain programme have participated in the first Mauritian cooking workshops organised for expatriates living in the western region of Mauritius. These initial workshops provide opportunities for the mothers to strengthen their culinary, communication and hospitality skills while sharing Mauritian culture through traditional cuisine.
As the initiative has only recently been launched, it is still too early to assess its long-term economic impact. However, the first workshops have received encouraging feedback from participants and have demonstrated strong potential for future income generation and women’s empowerment.
The main objectives of the project have largely been achieved:
- Successful renovation and equipment of the kitchen facilities.
- Creation of a safe, functional and welcoming cooking environment.
- Identification and engagement of five mothers in practical cooking activities.
- Successful launch of Mauritian cooking workshops with expatriates.
- Increased community participation and engagement.
- Educational cooking activities established for children and adolescents as an additional project benefit.
Please Note: All information herein, in part or in whole, is that of the said NGO and not of the I61 Foundation. 100% of the funds raised will be allocated to the project. If you have any questions, we would be more than happy to answer them. Thank you for your consideration.
