THE Helping Hand Schoolbag project has once again aided needy pupils in starting their big Grade 1 adventure.
The project, established 10 years ago in 2007, has since assisted more than 30000 pupils in need by providing them with stationery supplies and schoolbags every year.
This year, 4600 schoolbags with essential stationery supplies will be handed over to Grade 1 pupils across the country.
“Children are the bank which we invest in,” Helping Hand executive director, Danie Brink, said.
“Our interest is in their successful futures as doctors, teachers and leaders of our country.
“The project plays a vital role in the lives of these youngsters because with such a bag they can start their schooling on an equal footing with their peers,” he said.
Helping Hand, founded in 1949, has been working to break the cycle of poverty in South Africa for more than 60 years.
According to Brink, the foundations for a successful future are created early on in a child’s schooling career.
In the Eastern Cape, 448 bags were distributed to young pupils this year, 45 of which were handed over to East London pupils.
“We come year after year and there is always a greater need,” East London Helping Hand regional representative, Marlene Basson, said.
“We know the bags are making a difference in their lives because we see the joy on their faces when they get their own bag.”
Anyone interested in supporting Helping Hand or getting involved in the East London branch, can contact Basson on 083-501-3166 or e-mail: marlene@helpendehand.co.za.
