Nova Pioneer Paulshof learners give back through Mandela Day food drive
The learners proved that even the smallest acts of kindness can make a big difference as they collected food parcels to support vulnerable families ahead of Mandela Day.
A packet of soup, a bag of rice or a tin of baked beans may seem like ordinary groceries, but for Nova Pioneer Paulshof learners, they became powerful symbols of compassion and hope.
In the lead-up to Mandela Day on July 18, the school partnered with Crossing Cares to collect staple foods and assemble food parcels for families experiencing food insecurity.
While the donations will help households put meals on the table, the greatest lesson was one the learners themselves took home.
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Crossing Cares projects and fundraising manager, Lizzy Moyo, said the organisation deliberately chose to partner with schools because today’s learners will become tomorrow’s leaders.
“We wanted to work with schools because these are our future leaders. They are the people who will drive the spirit of ubuntu and create positive change in our communities.”
Moyo added that every food parcel contained essentials such as maize meal, rice, pasta, soup, baked beans and fish – simple items that can make a meaningful difference to a struggling family.
Nova Pioneer Paulshof ‘s dean of students, Hughneese du Plessis, said the initiative aligned with the school’s belief that every individual can make a difference.
“Our ethos is that each one can reach one. You don’t always need money. Sometimes you need to give your time, your effort, or simply choose to help someone else.”
Also read: Nova Pioneer learners prepare for Mandela Day with food drive
Despite the collection taking place during the school’s half-term break, families continued contributing while doing their weekly grocery shopping, adding one or two extra items to their trolleys before learners brought them to school.
For Grade 7 learner Oliven Duiker, community service is about recognising the privilege many people often take for granted.
“Many people are less fortunate than us. We are lucky to have food on our tables and a roof over our heads, so it feels good to give some of our time to help others.”
Classmate Nonikiwe Bardill said Mandela Day reminds South Africans that everyone can contribute, regardless of their circumstances.
“You don’t have to give money. You can give your time, donate clothes, help clean your community or add a few groceries for someone who needs them.”
According to Moyo, Crossing Cares usually makes monthly distributions on the last Saturday of the month, but this month they will be delivering the parcels in Olivenhoutbosch on July 18.
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