Update:BCPF Mask Initiative produces 6000 masks
The original target for the initiative was 4000 for the past month.
The Bedfordview Community Police Forum (BCPF) mask initiative went above and beyond expectations with over 6 000 masks made thus far.
The NEWS reported in the April 15 edition in the article Community come together during lockdown that the Bedfordview community has come together to make masks for those in need during the pandemic.
“We have assembled 53 women who are making face masks for distribution to essential services,” said Gavin Henry, chairperson of the BCPF.
The original target for the initiative was 4000 for the past month.
BCPF secretary and PRO Alison Grobbelaar said the 6000 masks are being distributed to facilities and organisations in need of them.
She added the initiative also included a lucky draw for sewing machine.
“The final couple of hours saw mask makers racing to get masks finished and delivered to the drop off points. This was to be included in the final numbers and get additional entries in the lucky draw for the sewing machine,” said Alison.
Voula Christelis was named the winner of the sewing machine.
Alison said the BCPF will continue the mask initiative for the month of May with another lucky draw.
BCPF chairman Gavin Henry said another initiative, Commit to Knit, is also running during lockdown.
“We have a number of women in the community who are knitting blankets for the less fortunate during winter,” said Gavin.
On May 12, Gavin said they delivered 40 blankets to those in need and aims to deliver an additional 20 more before the end of May.
According to Gavin, the BCPF is delegating on an additional initiative proposing residents donate to a soup kitchen and direct beggars at intersections to the kitchen.
“We would rather not have residents support beggars with money directly,” said Gavin.
One of the kitchens on board is the Malvern Soup Kitchen, supported by the community and St John already.
If you would like to assist by sponsoring meals at the soup kitchen you can make a donation to the BCPF account and the money will be sent to the soup kitchen.
Gavin added meals will be provided for beggars on a daily basis with no cost to them.
Cost per meal is R5.
Those looking for more information on any of these initiatives may contact the BCPF on 082 565 6018 or marketing@bcpf.co.za.
