Outeniqua Primary learners reach out through community service

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GEORGE NUUS - Learners at Outeniqua Primary School have once again made a difference in the lives of others through the successful completion of a community outreach project by the school’s Early Act Club.

Members of the club recently visited the Milestone Development Programme (MDP) at Bethesda, where they delivered gifts and food to children with developmental delays from disadvantaged families.

The project forms part of Early Act, a Rotary-sponsored programme at primary schools that promotes active citizenship, leadership and social responsibility among young learners.

According to Danielle Barnard, a teacher at Outeniqua Primary and coordinator of the Early Act Club, the relationship with the Milestone Development Programme has been built over several years.

“We became aware of the MDP at Bethesda a few years ago. It is a stimulation project for children between the ages of two and six who experience developmental delays. Over the years we have reached out to these children on various occasions, and this year we wanted to do something special once again. Our Early Actors proved themselves more than capable of rising to the challenge,” says Barnard.

With support from their parents, the learners baked cakes, provided snacks and collected Christmas gifts for the children.

On the day of the visit, approximately 40 Early Act learners travelled to Bethesda, where they handed over the donations before spending time playing and interacting with the children.

The Milestone Development Programme continues to require community support. Ongoing needs include sponsorship of monthly parties, groceries for food parcels, clothing for children aged 18 months to six years, and stationery. Anyone wishing to assist can contact Sharon Symons on 072 111 7528.

: Andiswa Gusha and Eva-Grace Bezuidenhout enjoying the moment. Photo supplied