Learners collect clothes, toys to support families, protect planet
The Creative Education Centre in Selcourt has launched a Save The Environment club, led by 11-year-old Mikaela Francis. The initiative collects clothes and toys to support underprivileged families while promoting recycling and reuse.
The Creative Education Centre in Selcourt launched a Save the Environment club to support underprivileged families and orphans. The drive aims to collect clothes for adults and children, as well as toys, which the club will donate to a chosen home.
Leading the club is 11-year-old Mikaela Francis, who told the Springs Advertiser that the aim is to make a difference in the community.
She said that donating used clothes and toys helps protect the environment by reducing landfill waste, conserving natural resources, decreasing pollution, and promoting a circular economy through reuse and recycling.
Mikaela added that an awareness of their surroundings and social media had highlighted the plight of the less fortunate, inspiring the initiative.
She explained that she shared the idea with like-minded friends, which was then communicated to parents and teachers and has now expanded to include the community.
“People want to make a difference, but sometimes the challenge is not having the resources to do so. This worthy cause costs nothing, allows you to do a good spring clean of your cupboards and encourages you to check in with family who might also want to contribute,” she said.
She said it feels great knowing they can put a smile on another child’s face and that their pre-owned clothing and toys go to good use.
Mikaela said that their challenges have not stopped them from wanting to make a difference, adding that the most rewarding part is seeing students care about children in the community and the environment.
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The 11-year-old hopes the school organises more initiatives like this to reduce waste and help wherever possible.
“We believe other young people should not be afraid to start initiatives and should continue caring about others and the environment,” said Mikaela.
The collection closes on November 7. Mikaela’s parents, Peter and Yvonne Francis, will co-ordinate drop-offs and collections on behalf of the school.
To donate, call Peter on 083 289 2593 or Yvonne on 083 234 2308.
