WYEBANK Secondary School Grade Nine and 10 learners were over the moon last Wednesday (August 28) when they were visited by Rivers Foundation, a non-profit organisation founded by Pastors Andre and Wilma Olivier, the senior pastors of Rivers Church.
The foundation members and volunteers arrived at the school with individual care packs that had towels, soap and deodorant.
The school’s principal, Rose Govender, said she sent out a request to the church after seeing the wonderful work Rivers Foundation is involved in, in local communities.
“This donation will restore our girls’ dignity. It also came at the right time as the country celebrates Women’s Month. We have female learners from underprivileged and poor socio-economic backgrounds who struggle to purchase these much-needed monthly essentials. We are truly grateful to Rivers Foundation and Rivers Church.”
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Fathima Naidu from the foundation said they are involved in a number of community outreach programmes and are grateful for the opportunity to support the female learners to attend classes even during their monthly cycle.
Although the church is based in the Durban North area, Naidu said they do outreaches in some Highway areas, too.
“We also built two crèches in Molweni, and we support them on a regular basis.”
She said the Rivers Foundation was launched in 2006 to be a helping hand to disadvantaged families.
“We strive to empower communities, one initiative at a time. Through the kindness of our congregation members and our donors, we are dedicated to making a difference to less fortunate communities.
“We are involved in schools’ weekly feeding schemes to provide sustenance for learners in need. We are passionate about education, which is why we organise school drives for essential items like stationery and school shoes.”
In addition, Naidu said the foundation also revamps jungle gyms and libraries to create safe and engaging spaces for children to encourage physical activities.
“And when winter hits, we warm hearts with blankets, canned food, beanies and gloves, For Rivers Foundation, every day is an opportunity to put a smile on someone’s face,” she said.
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