Despite poverty some children voluntarily seek additional after-school support as a gateway to a better life.
These children can be seen visiting daycare centres after school to grab a meal and to get help with their homework. Unfortunately most of these centres, especially in Alexandra, are inadequately resourced to provide them with sustainable and quality services.
One of them is the Lutheran Church Community Centre on 3rd Avenue. It is has two staff members, Lydia Makhoba and Thabo Mathews, and a volunteer and part-time cooks. The centre supports 150 Grade 3-8 children and is supported by the Union of Jewish Woman which sponsored kitchen equipment and contributes to its operating costs. Unfortunately, the contribution is inadequate to cover most educational materials and stipends for the staff. To bridge this gap the centre is looking for volunteers for the education component.
Makhoba said despite the resource challenges, the children’s desire for education kept them motivated. “Most of their parents and grannies acting as guardians work odd hours which makes it difficult for them to supervise their children’s homework or are just illiterate to perform this role,” she said.
“We appeal for matriculants, graduates and other volunteers to join us. With more people and additional educational material, we will be able to register and help more needy children,” she concluded.
Details: Lydia Makhoba on 072 130 7473.
