Recipients of food and other social relief in Alexandra appealed for the donations of play, educational toys and books for home use by their children.
This, while the Department of Education prepares to re-open schools on 1 June amid concerns about the coronavirus scare sweeping the country.
According to proportional representative councillor Shadrack Mkhonto, the items are to reduce boredom and keep the children stimulated while they remain idle in indoors and within the yards of their crammed premises.
Mkhonto said the appeal – which was made while he distributed donated food and other material needs – asks donors to include the toy and books with food parcels.
“They help to stimulate children as they transition various stages of growth and development. Also, they will help them to not lag behind their better-resourced counterparts who continue to learn through virtual home sessions pending the re-opening of schools.”
He distributed the first batch of donated toys to children in Extension 7.
Also, Mkhonto requested donors not to relent, saying their contribution will be needed for as long as the virus lasts and more people join the list of recipients as companies close, jobs are shed and unemployment rises.
“Government’s social relief through food parcels is not enough, despite commitment to increase the supply. Also, many needy people are still not on the list of beneficiaries from social development, despite submitting their names through ward councillors,” a concerned Mkhonto said.
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