Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm funds 5,000 masks for local schools

The project included the supply of masks to 20 ECD centres and 14 local primary schools within the extended Jeffreys Bay communities. The masks have been made by local NGO On Eagles Wings Multi-Purpose Centre and handed to children in Pre-Grade R to Grade 4.

Resonating with their efforts to support and protect victims of gender-based violence, each mask has been sewn with Lifeline’s counselling number to report violence or child abuse.

“By contracting this local NGO, the project not only helps keep young children safe, but also created short term employment for the members of the organisation as they sewed and packaged the masks,” explained Hlengiwe Radebe, director of economic development for Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm.

Whilst it is not compulsory for all children at ECD centres to wear masks, the Department of Social Development has given a directive that young children should wear masks, especially where there may be young children with Covid-19 or flu-like symptoms.

Noah’s Ark in Pellsrus

Noah's Ark in Pellsrus is one of 20 ECD Centres receiving COVID-19 masks, funded by Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm, made by local NGO, On Eagles Wings.

One of the 20 ECD centres that received masks recently is Noah’s Ark in Pellsrus, Jeffreys Bay. The playschool takes care of around 140 children between the age of one and six, offering a safe and caring environment as well as two meals a day.

Parents at the ECD Centre expressed their excitement and appreciation when receiving the masks and other PPE as many of the children didn’t have an adequate supply of masks, which require washing.

A team of four women from On Eagles Wings Multi-Purpose Centre sewed the masks at their homes due to Covid regulations, whilst Mercy Cwayi co-ordinated the collection and delivery of the material and other supplies to the team.

“In addition to the masks, many of our team are out in the community, teaching people how to take care not only of themselves but of other people, especially those caring for elderly family members. We continue to share about the importance of sanitisers, washing hands, taking care of masks and social distancing. We hope that our commitment to the community can make a difference over such a time as this,” concluded Cwayi.