Richards Bay NPO kicks off back-to-school drive

Completing their festive cheer projects in mid-December with hundreds of grocery parcels and children’s Box of Blessings Christmas gift boxes distributed, Richards Bay-based charity Walk in Faith kicked off the new year with its back-to-school Scribbles Smiles Drive.

Calling on businesses and community members to assist with their stationery and lunch drives for local primary and high school learners, NPO founder Merinda Ackermann said there are still about 150 children in need of essential school gear.

Ackerman said they are still in need of school shoes, bags, uniforms, socks, hard cover books, book covers and plastics, as well as pens and other stationery items.
Over the years, the organisation has met its target thanks to the support of generous and regular donors.

“Every year there are new beneficiaries added to the list as many families move to Richards Bay for job prospects, but employment is low and they fall into further financial challenges in their quest to seek work,” said Ackerman.

“For those who would like to make a financial contribution, pre-school and primary is R400 per learner, while high school is R700 per child.

“We run our weekly school lunches and also rely on donations of groceries. The weekly cost per child for school lunches is R150.

“We are inviting donors who would like to pledge their support for any of our programmes, especially the learners’ lunch meals which runs throughout the year.

“Many of our beneficiaries are from low or no income households and survive on grants, while for others their income covers only rent and they cannot afford groceries,” she said.

Pre-loved school items in good condition are also welcome.

For Richards Bay donations, contact 081 5382331 and Empangeni, contact 083 4170133 or 083 3105367.

Don’t have the ZO app? Download it to your Android or Apple device here:

HAVE YOUR SAY