Hippo donates all billboards for underprivileged kids

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The company has embraced the CSI concept, conceived by public relations and media company, PR Worx, to recycle vinyl billboards for making DeskBags for underprivileged school children, and will now be donating all of its used billboards to the initiative.

Since joining the initiative, Hippo.co.za has donated 13 billboard faces to PR Worx's DeskBags. These will produce about 135 DeskBags, which will soon, through corporate sponsorship, be distributed to needy schools free of charge.

Hippo.co.za's Amanda Thomas said that the company is thrilled to be part of the initiative, which is providing a temporary and cost-effective solution to the lack of desks in South African schools, while helping to keep used billboards from being dumped in already overflowing landfill sites.

"Hippo.co.za, like all companies worldwide, is under pressure to reduce the impact of its business on the environment. We take our obligation to reduce our carbon footprint and promote a healthier environment very seriously, and so we are always looking for ways to make a meaningful contribution. This initiative gives us an opportunity to show our commitment to environmental sustainability by recycling and also uplifting school learners in need," explained Thomas.

A portable desk solution

DeskBags are not only functional eco-friendly school bags, but also provide a portable desk solution. The bag allows the child to carry his books and stationery, while the flap is reinforced with durable ABS plastic, that when folded open, allows for instant desk support too. The product is made from the vinyl of recycled billboards and is so robust that, if looked after well, it can last a whole school career. The bags are waterproof, reflective, and light enough for pre-primary scholars to use.

According to PR Worx's Madelain Roscher: "Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga revealed in a written reply to a parliamentary question that schools across South Africa need three million desks, and with these alarming statistics in mind, DeskBags was conceived as a temporary solution to this immense problem.

"These children are forced either to kneel on the ground or work on makeshift desks during their school day. This is obviously uncomfortable and affects their ability to learn and be productive.

"While a proper desk in a classroom is first prize, in reality this is not an immediate solution as it takes time and money to build and furnish classrooms. In the meantime, our DeskBags offer a viable alternative to make learning more comfortable for children in poor and rural schools who do not get to use at a desk at school or at home," she concluded.