Voorpos Primary, in the heart of Cambridge, will not let a child go hungry, poorly clothed, and uneducated.
This plucky school’s philosophy is borne out by its one-of-a-kind feeding scheme.
It does more than feed: the children receive clothes and other necessities.
Started in 2000, it is a positive lifeline for 20 children, who can also be sent home with food parcels for the family.
It is against this background that triathlete and grade 3 teacher Tarine Cerff decided to use her Ironman 70.3 endurance feat to raise money for the school’s feeding scheme.
Cerff, 25, is calling for sponsorships and donations in her build-up to the Durban triathlon.
“I want to do my part to help these kids. I understand the feeling of struggling as a child, and I sometimes feel it now, as an adult too.
“So I want to be able to make sure these kids don’t feel that way. I have been part of a soup kitchen that feeds 300 people, and I felt like I also want to make a difference in the lives of these 20 pupils.”
Cerff participated in the 2019 Durban 70.3 Ironman, finishing her swimming in 26 minutes, and wants a personal best this year.
She has trained harder than ever, and knowing that there will be something in it for her schoolchildren has given her focus.
“I have been a sportsperson all my life, so it just made sense to take part in Ironman this year.
“I train before and after school, and weekends are when I do my long-distance training.
“I love cycling and swimming. I am very excited to take part again this year.”
Cerff will be taking care of her own costs — any sponsorships and donations go directly to the feeding scheme.
Grade R teacher Rochelle Croucamp says identifying children in the most need out of over 800 pupils is tough task.
But teachers get to know who they are and moves to assist are made in a discreet manner, maintaining the child’s dignity and privacy.
“After a background check to determine the child’s family life, we are able to help the child.
“We provide food, and in some cases, clothes, shoes and school supplies.
“We want to be able to help more children more frequently, but with a lack of funds, it is a difficult task,” said Croucamp.
This scheme is fully funded by the school through casual days and raffles.
Five stalwart local businesses have stood by their school and have given money, food and other necessities.
To join the project, email principal@voorposprim.co.za
