The Toolbox Empowerment Hub has once again partnered with Florida Hills Residents Forum (FHRF) to conduct an in-depth clean-up of upper William Nicol Street.

According to the hub’s manager, Andrew Holdsworth, this is part of a twice-annual clean-up conducted by FHRF to ensure this main artery through the area is safe for both motorists and pedestrians.

“The project involves rubble removal, the removal of invasive species, clearing of vegetation from the pedestrian walkways and the centre island,” he says.

The hub has proven itself over the years as one of the most effective initiatives of its kind, creating sustainable employment opportunities for rehabilitating drug addicts or homeless persons.

“Despite having lost the bulk of our government funding, we’ve managed not only to survive, but to grow,” says Holdsworth.

“Creating a garden service business that services primarily office blocks and other larger projects rather than private houses, and also features a dedicated and fully certified tree felling division, also played a pivotal role in ensuring our success, as it helps to fund a lot of our work.

“All the workers employed by the business come up through the empowerment hub, which provides the training.

“Between all the hub programmes and Toolbox Environmental Services, we provide regular work for nearly 150 people, of which 38 are employed full time.”

Also read: FSRA clean-ups in jeopardy

Holdsworth adds that Toolbox currently works with about 15 residents’ associations throughout the West Rand.

“Our vegetable garden in Ruimsig is up and running with the first harvest about to be planted. This is expected to provide fresh vegetables to at least 60 schools.”

For more information on the Toolbox Empowerment Hub, call Holdsworth on 060 845 2291.