NORKEM Park High School is hosting a matric dance drive to help 20 learners from disadvantaged families to enjoy their farewell on September 30.
Learners who will benefit from the project those in foster care or staying with parents who are unemployed and who are struggling to provide for their basic needs.
The project was started through the school counsellor’s office, after two matric learners realised they would not be assisted by their parents due to financial problems.
After discussions with both the learners, the school decided to involve the community by seeking donations. However they felt it would be unfair for only the two learners to benefit from the donations, as many other learners were also struggling.
The project was born and 18 other learners were involved to make this a special day for them too.
“We want these learners to enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime experience just as much as the others, who are privileged enough to have parents to pay all their fees,” said school counsellor, Busiswa Sambudla.
“We urge all community members to spread the word about the project and ask anyone with any kind of donation to bring it to the school. We will further sort out everything and distribute donations to the learners.”
The school needs donations of matric dance dresses, make-up packs, hairdressing services, manicures, transport to the function venue, suits for boys, shoes for both girls and boys and accessories for girls. Cash donations can also be made for the school to make further donations.
Funding is also needed for the venue and food for each learner, at R650 a person, which is R13 000 for all 20 learners.
“We ask that all hairdressers, make-up artists, photographers, dress shops and transport companies take our project into consideration to help our learners benefit from their kindness,” said Sambudla.
The school is planning to run the project every year and hopes to get enough sponsors, donations and sustainable supporters to assist learners in years to come.
“All of them have one thing in common, and that is to enjoy their farewell and one last night with their friends, before they start a new journey,” Sambudla said.
For more information or to make any donations, contact her on 011 972 4144, or email to bsambudla@nphs.co.za.
