Wilro Lions practicing charitable spirit
The Lions Club of Wilro Park has undertaken several initiatives to help those struggling during the lockdown, and to help underprivileged people prepare for winter.
Throughout the lockdown, and before, several groups have been doing their best to help those who need it most.
One of the groups that spends their time doing charity work throughout the year and has taken it upon themselves to help the less fortunate during this time is the Lions Club of Wilro Park.
According to Sandy van Heerden, public relations officer for the club, the Lions are hoping to reach as many people as they can to make this time a bit easier for those who are struggling.
One of the main projects the Wilro Lions have taken on during this pandemic is making reusable face masks. Members of the club have been working tirelessly to make as many as they can, and the first batch was delivered to Princess informal settlement by Ward 85 councillor, Sonja Meyer, on 7 April. As these masks are washable, the Lions are also educating those who receive them about the importance of washing them, saying that they should not be reused without being washed. “If they do not have facilities like a washing machine, we advise them to boil the masks in a pot or something similar in order to properly clean them,” said Sandy.
The club members are also collecting hand sanitizers to give out with the masks. With winter approaching, they are collecting blankets, jerseys and scarves, and they are putting together food parcels for families who are struggling to get by, especially now that many of them cannot work because of the lockdown.
The Wilro Lions are encouraging community members to help with these projects – either by donating blankets, food, elastic for the masks, or monetary donations (which may be easier during lockdown).
The monetary donations will go towards buying food and essential items for the families who are struggling and hungry during this time. The Wilro Lions have been able to outline that food parcels per family will cost R36.
The club is also encouraging those who are at home with nothing to do and have scrap material or spare wool, to make masks or blankets, for which the club can provide design instructions.
“I know it is a very difficult time, but any help is appreciated, even if it is just a donation of a few rands. Every little bit helps, even if you think it doesn’t,” Sandy concluded.
Anyone who would like to help can contact Sandy on 083 564 6388.
