For many of the children, most of whom come from surrounding farming communities, the day was about more than just new supplies, serving as a reminder that they are seen, valued and supported. Each pupil received a packed bundle that included a food hamper, school shoes, basic stationery, sanitary pads for girls from Grade 4 upwards, face cloths, soap, toothbrushes and toothpaste. As the packages were handed over, beaming faces and excited chatter told the real story of the impact such gestures have on rural schools.
Adding to the excitement was the presence of members of the Springbok Women’s rugby team, Tayla Kinsey, Lindelwa Gwala and Marry Zulu whose visit inspired pupils and turned the handover into a celebration. Pick n Pay had partnered with its school club, Feed the Nation (FTN) Foundation and SA Harvest among others strengthening the collective effort to address food insecurity and basic needs in vulnerable communities. In addition to the donations made yesterday, Pick n Pay St Johns provided a R18 000 credit for the school for items needed during the year, and the school also received food valued at about R10 000 for its nutrition programme.
Marketing lead of supermarkets at Pick n Pay, Phillip Gittins said the partnership champions the power of unity to create real change. Through school-specific support, the initiative aims to give learners and their families a dignified, supported start to the year so they can focus on learning. “In addition to the individual hampers, the school also received bulk grocery support for its feeding scheme, and educational classroom content,” said Gittins.
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