We are all in the same storm but we are not all in the same boat within this storm

It’s tough to think that we have had a state of emergency for almost 12 months – more than 300 days so far and counting.  How have you spent the time and have you been fortunate enough to see family and friends?  It’s true that we are all in the same storm but we are not all in the same boat within this storm.  For many of the children who attend Siphila Sonke afterschool club they have known the rigours of lockdown generally without access to data or Wi-Fi, living in close quarters and without the stimulation of schooling or educational materials.

That’s why we applaud the actions of our teachers Lein and Maria who recently took work packs door to door meeting up with our registered children and parents, they encouraged the carers to ensure that each work pack was completed before next week when their next work assignment would be delivered.  Not only are teachers and learners working together but the generous donors who provided the stationery packs are part of the team …  Life is so much better when we all work together.

Likewise, the Siphile beneficiaries will receive food parcels this week.  I know I personally have felt that January has been extremely long – it’s almost impossible to imagine how long it must have been for those awaiting their SASSA grant.  Again we say a BIG THANK YOU to the donors who have given into this project and to the volunteers who will be doing each delivery whilst adhering to the governments guidelines on wearing of masks, social distancing and sanitising.

We look into 2021 with purpose and tenacity.  South Africans are tough and we will overcome.  Thank you for being a part of the solution as we move forward together.