Humanitarian organisation, Ashraful Aid based in Marlboro Gardens has just launched a new initiative to aid underprivileged children.
Marketing coordinator Taahira Saloojee said that the idea was born during a humanitarian relief trip.
“We recognised that children are often the ones most affected during times of difficulty. On a trip, the team realised that children suffer the effects of poverty, war and displacement in a profound way. Something as simple as a toy to play with becomes a luxury. On returning from this trip we then decided to initiate a campaign called Toy Drive,” she said.
Earlier this year, the organisation began the drive in South Africa with toy drop-off points in five areas around Johannesburg.
With an overwhelming response to the drive, toys were distributed to children in more than 10 underprivileged schools and crèches in the north of Joburg and surrounding areas. It was then expanded to two other provinces.
“We also received a significant donation of toys from Importatoy, one of the largest online toy retailers. We recognise that the need is much greater than we anticipated. Ultimately, it is children who are our future, and it is of the utmost importance that we invest in them.”
Saloojee added that the project will be extended until the end of March 2021. She also mentioned that the toy drive will be developed into an annual campaign and extended to the rest of the country.
“The responses we received from communities which we operate in have been favourable. Now, more than ever, it is essential that children are provided with safe spaces in which they can learn and grow without being negatively affected by the environment around them.”
Director of Ashraful Aid, Suhail Wadee added that in an ever-changing world, children still need a sense of routine and normalcy to develop and function efficiently.
“At Ashraful Aid, we see the impact on children on a daily basis, and it is for this reason we decided to expand and grow Toy Drive. We look forward to equipping underprivileged crèches, orphanages and schools around the country with toys and to growing this project further,” he said.
Details: For more information or to donate visit: www.ashrafulaid.org
