Help hungry learners by donating bread

GEORGE NEWS - At the beginning of the year, some parents have to make a choice between buying school supplies for a child starting the new school year, or buying food for their family.

To help these families, the Pacaltsdorp Community Business Association is again doing its annual school lunch box drive.

Through this drive they donate bread, butter and bread spreads to families in need, as well as make a number of lunch boxes that children can take to school on their first day.

They also collect maize meal that is handed out to poor families.

The association's chairperson, Luwayda Trantraal, says last year they were able to help 400 families so that school children were able to take a sandwich to school on the first two days of the school year.

"This year we would very much like to help 600 children as the need is growing, so we are kindly requesting donations from the public and business community.

"If you can perhaps donate bread or a bread spread, it would be much appreciated and will strengthen our hands," says Trantraal.

Willie Cilliers, owner of Upstairs at Harry's coffee shop is the project's biggest sponsor, but Trantraal says they still need more donations of bread and bread spreads. The deadline for donations is 14 January.

Last year, they reached out with the drive to the informal settlements at die Vleie, New Dawn Park, Moeggeploeg and Moeggehuur as well as Ryger Park. This year, they are also wanting to help needy families in Syferfontein and Rosedale.

This year is the second time that the drive is being held.

People who wish to assist, may contact Luwayda on 072 692 1880.

Sandwiches made last year to feed needy children on their first two school days of the year.