World Cleanup Day a massive success

Unified Public School joined World Cleanup Day with enthusiasm, helping to clear litter along Swan Avenue at Florida Lake.

More than 20 learners, invited by the Florida South Residents Association (FSRA), armed themselves with refuse bags and gloves and joined other volunteers, including members of the KCCC Foundation, to tackle the lake’s litter problem.

As they worked their way towards First Avenue, the learners not only collected papers but also brightened the day of fishermen around the lake by showing interest in their activities.

Principal Bongani Sibisi said it was important for the school to expose learners to community service.

“It makes me proud to see these young people spend their Saturday morning in service of their community,” he said.

FSRA chairperson Rodney Churchyard, who coordinated the large group of residents, moved between the various teams handling the more demanding tasks, such as clearing overgrown stormwater drains.

“The only way we are ever going to get Florida Lake back to its former glory as a place where families can spend quality time outdoors is if we take it upon ourselves,” he said.

After a morning of raking, hoeing and collecting litter, the learners and volunteers retired to the Dardanelles MOTH Hall, where military veterans had offered their premises for some well-earned rest.

Each participant received a boerie roll and a cooldrink.

“We are very grateful to Unified Public School for their eager participation in this event,” said Churchyard. “The children had a lot of fun, and now the lake looks so much better.”