GEORGE NEWS - Following the successful Salga Western Cape Provincial Members Assembly (PMA) in George on 8 and 9 October, the South African Local Government Association (Salga) Western Cape extended its stay in the city to give back to the community through the Salga Cares initiative.
As part of this ongoing social responsibility effort, Salga Western Cape donated 153 dignity packs to learners at Tabatha Primary School in George on Friday 10 October.
Salga Cares is a staff-driven initiative launched in 2024 to honour Women’s Month and advance community well-being. Now in its second year, the initiative continues to expand, with more partners joining hands.
This year, Sisonke Solutions joined the project, contributing essential items for the dignity packs and joining the team for the handover ceremony at the school.
Each dignity pack contained a bar of soap, facecloth, toothbrush, sanitary towels, deodorant and body lotion - items that learners often go without due to economic hardship. The donation seeks to restore a sense of dignity and self-confidence among them, enabling them to focus better on their education.
At the handover, the school’s principal, Yvonne Dingiswayo, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the support.
“Our school was founded in 2019, and many of our learners come from disadvantaged backgrounds where families struggle to make ends meet. This donation will make a huge difference in their lives and help restore their confidence,” she said.
Dingiswayo also spoke proudly about the talents and determination of the learners at Tabatha Primary. “Despite the challenges they face, our learners continue to excel. We have a school choir that competes at both provincial and national levels, showcasing the incredible potential within our community.”
Each dignity pack contained a bar of soap, facecloth, toothbrush, sanitary towels, deodorant and body lotion - items that learners often go without due to economic hardship.
The school governing body’s chairperson, Eric Mdaka, echoed his sentiments and expressed deep appreciation to Salga and Sisonke Solutions.
“We are grateful for this generous support. These dignity packs are more than just items; they are a message of care and encouragement. They will boost the children’s confidence, improve school attendance, and remind them that their community cares about their future.”
He further emphasised the importance of partnerships in community development. “When organisations like Salga and local businesses come together to support our schools, the impact is far-reaching. It uplifts not only the learners, but the entire community,” he said.
The Salga Cares initiative reflects Salga’s broader commitment to fostering meaningful connections between municipalities, communities and local stakeholders. Salga continues to promote a culture of care, compassion and social responsibility among its staff.
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