Outeniqua Primary learners join hands with children's home

GEORGE NEWS - Recently the Early Act Club at Outeniqua Primary School concluded its latest community service project.

Early Act is sponsored at primary schools by the international Rotary service organisation and its purpose is to provide young learners with opportunities to be active citizens in a culturally diverse democratic society in an interdependent world.

"As we were considering a new outreach, the children at Môreson Children's Home attracted us," comments Danielle Barnard, teacher and Early Act coordinator at Outeniqua Primary.

"We wanted to do something special for these children. Our Early Actors proved to be more than able for the task."

Môreson traces its roots back to 1917. Based in Denneoord, George, and duly registered, it provides care for approximately 100 children aged between three and 18. Children are sent to Môreson by court order and come from backgrounds of emotional or physical abuse or neglect.

At Môreson they are allocated to one of the eight houses on the premises in accordance with their developmental phases.

A multi-disciplinary team focuses on the physical, emotional, social and educational needs of each child.

Sydney Michaels and Juan Brand interact with a Môreson toddler.

The learners at the Early Act Club, assisted by their parents, supplied fruit and arrived with balls and crayons at Môreson on 21 October. After handing over the fruit, the Early Act members played with the preschoolers on the grounds. Afterwards the Môreson children conveyed their thanks by way of song.

"Part of our mission as a value-driven school is assisting and empowering learners to make a positive contribution in our society," notes Dr Nico Venter, principal of Outeniqua Primary, "and Early Act for us provides a forum for answering this responsibility."

President of the George Rotary Club Di Kershaw says they are very proud to be associated with the Outeniqua Primary Early Actors. "Their initiatives embody the leadership, compassion and community spirit our country needs."

Môreson, being registered as a non-profit organisation and as child and youth care centre, needs people to become involved by way of volunteering, specifically assisting with school work or sport, sponsoring children or being parents for a holiday or weekend.

Financial contributions, birthday gifts for children, clothing, stationery, fruit and vegetables, or items for use in the houses are also highly welcome. Those interested can phone the Môreson programme coordinator, Adri Quiens, on 078 011 3042.

Early Actors getting ready for the handover.