Staff and children at Noluthando Early Childhood Development Centre, in Langa, were elated when the provincial Department of Social Development with non-governmental organisation (NGO) Al-Imdaad gave them beanies, blankets and hygiene packs.
At least 30 blankets, 110 beanies and hygiene packs (containing among others toothbrushes and toothpaste) were given to the centre on Tuesday May 8, in line with the department’s ECD Hygiene and Drought Awareness Campaign.
The campaign seeks to raise hygienic awareness during the drought period and cold weather.
Social Development MEC, Albert Fritz, said the campaign targeted ECDs.
“Children at creches can be susceptible to illness and diseases if good hygiene practices are not followed,” he said. “Some of the most common illnesses at creches include colds and flu, diarrhoea and rashes.”
Mr Fritz said the initiative would assist in the prevention and the outbreak of diseases, at the ECDs. He commended Noluthando for its water-saving efforts.
“The facility has cut water usage by having children wash their hands in a basin with disinfectant and re-used grey water for toilet flushing. We commend them for their efforts to save water,” he said, urging residents to continue saving water. “We cannot be complacent,” he said.
He added that Cape Town needed more water in the reserves ahead of summer.
An ecstatic Ms Ngqakayi said she was pleased to be among the cleanest and caring ECDs.
She said the visit by the MEC was a sign that they were doing a good job, not only for Langa community but for the entire province.
“We pride ourselves for good work. Our staff knows what is needed and expected of them. We always encourage them to attend health workshops,” she said. “This donation means a lot to our community, especially our children here.”
Ms Ngqakayi thanked the department.
