Crawford learners give back to the needy one meal at a time
Crawford International College Lonehill learners were able to feed those in need through a school outreach programme that teaches them kindness.
Crawford International College Lonehill’s community outreach programme is making a tangible difference in the lives of those in need.
Through a vibrant and dynamic initiative, students are engaging in various community service projects, from packing meals for early childhood development (ECD) centres, to supporting local animal shelters and organisations.
The college recently collaborated with Rise Against Hunger to continue with the impactful work of their community outreach programme, which is nurturing empathy, creativity, and social responsibility among students.
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“Our community outreach students assisted Rise Against Hunger with the packing of meals for ECD centres in less affluent areas. 66 000 meals were packed on the day, on our campus and at Rise Against Hunger’s warehouse.
“Packing for Rise Against Hunger takes place at least once a month,” said one of the co-ordinators of the programme, Lorette Vieren. “We visit a variety of initiatives on a weekly basis and we make a distinct difference in the lives of others. We regularly visit animal shelters such as Woodrock and Husky Rescue Centre.”
She added that they also clean enclosures, take the animals for walks, and groom the previously neglected animals. “Our students thoroughly enjoy visits to organisations like Christways and Marang House. They engage with the children from these institutions with the aim of developing their academic, emotional, and social skills.”
Margareth Selaelo, another co-ordinator, said it also encourages the holistic development of individuals who can become responsible citizens and be future role-players in society. These are pivotal to the programme.
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“We are currently running a toiletry collection for teenagers, and a baby blanket drive for the little ones at Rock of Hope. Our active sandwich drive collection, on Tuesday and Friday mornings, has provided 157 571 meals to people in need since 2020. The Bryanston Rotary Club also forms part of our outreach, and we are always eager to participate in their annual fun day, as well as their river cleanups.
“The compassion, sincere interest, and empathy that our students have for the people and animals in their community, and the support and encouragement from our parent body, enables the college to run a most effective, impactful, and robust community outreach programme.”
She said the programme gives students insight into different standards of living in the country, and motivates them to become more creative through brainstorming, collaboration, and developing their problem solving abilities.
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