Sturdy and reliable trolleys for waste pickers

Westcliff Nursery School assisted local waste pickers with new sturdy and reliable trolleys designed by past parent at the school and engineer Jason Glanz.

Principal Marilyn Barker said the school aimed to lay a solid foundation in early childhood education with an emphasis on social responsibility.

“The children are taught from an early age about the benefits of reducing pollution, the impact of recycling and ways they can positively contribute to saving their planet,” added Barker.

She said through fundraising, two trolleys were built and handed over to two waste pickers.

“We hope to follow up with the two recipients and use their feedback to improve on the design. We hope to double that number every year.”

As a recycling enthusiast, Barker said she had much respect for the work conducted by the waste pickers.

“I saw their good work and how many struggle with large loads. I wanted to do something to make it easier and give others a form of making a living.

“The waste pickers perform a fantastic job in the Westcliff area. The winter mist is often shattered by the rattling of trolleys, with the recyclers intent on filling up their waste bag with discarded items, which are valuable in providing a self-sufficient income.”

Barker said the donated trolleys were strong with good quality wheels and sides to prevent bags from falling off and a surfing seat for downhill travel.

Barker thanked Hanlie Glanz, who helped to source items needed for the trolleys, Prime Trailers for the design and manufacture and PC Steel for donating the steel at cost price.

To contribute funds towards the making of more trolleys, contact Westcliff Nursery School on 082 490 0482.