Alexander Sinton High’s welfare club serves up hope
Cape Town - The dedicated members of the Welfare Club at Alexander Sinton High School, spearheaded by Zakira Prins, a Grade 10 pupil at the school, and the Muslims Students Association (MSA) have launched their weekly sandwich donation programme within the school and surrounding areas.
The collaboration aims to provide basic food supplies and toiletries to school children and aims to reach out within the Athlone community.
The initiative is to prepare and package sandwiches within the Athlone community, aimed at providing nourishment for those facing food insecurity in Athlone.
This initiative focuses on high-foot traffic areas, ensuring that individuals who may not have access to sufficient meals are reached effectively.
The club’s efforts extend beyond just sandwich donations. Recently, members have been actively engaging with local children’s homes and women’s shelters, where they don’t just drop off essential items such as clothing, toiletries, and toys they also spend quality time with residents.
The most recent beneficiaries are the Lelieblom House and Ihata Shelter for abused women.
These visits are crucial as they foster emotional support and a sense of belonging among individuals who might often feel isolated.
“Our goal is to provide not just food but also companionship; we believe that every small act of kindness can make a significant difference in someone’s life,” Prins said.
“Through our consistent outreach, the Welfare Club encourages student engagement and community participation, and wants to create a ripple effect of kindness throughout Athlone,” Prins concludes.
“We want the word to spread about their efforts so that more volunteers continue to join the cause, enhancing the initiative's reach and impact,” said Prins.
By addressing both immediate needs and long-term support mechanisms, Alexander Sinton High School’s Welfare Club exemplifies how educational institutions can play a pivotal role in uplifting their communities.
This grass roots effort serves as an inspiring reminder of the power of collective action in combating social issues like hunger and isolation.
Western Cape Education Department spokesperson Milicent Merton said the department was very proud of the learners, and especially the members of the RCL, for taking the initiative to make a difference in their community.
“We also commend the school management for supporting the learners and helping them to develop their leadership skills,” said Merton.
grecia.mgolombane@inl.co.za
Cape Argus