The Hermanus Times team recently paid a visit to Mispah School for Learners with Special Educational Needs in Elim as part of its Madiba Day outreach programme.
The school is home to 107 learners between ages 10 and 18 from across the province, most of whom stay at the school’s hostel.
On our visit we discovered that although the school grounds and facilities were neat and tidy, the hostel was in desperate need of bedding (especially duvets and blankets for single beds), shower curtains, towels, rugs and a television set.
Colourful posters and/or paintings, fairy lights strings, large bean bags (to sit on) and any other items that will help to brighten up the children’s living quarters, where they spend a large part of their time, will also be welcome.
Other items on the wish list include educational toys, easy board games and puzzles, children’s books, balls and hula hoops as well as facecloths, soap, toothbrushes and toothpaste and deodorant, bed socks, school socks and maroon school jerseys. “The plight of children is a cause close to our hearts,” said Hermanus Times editor Mariëtte Strydom, “and that is why we appeal to our readers to assist us in making this hostel a home away from home.”
Hermanus Times also aims to launch a Boxes of Love project at a later stage. This will involve filling small boxes with stationery items, sweet treats, toiletries and a small toy/gift. More details will be announced later. Donations can be dropped off at the newspaper’s offices in the Birkenhead Building in Main Road (opposite Absa).
