Club-X-Society in Heidedal has continued with humanitarian gestures towards school children, enabling them to pursue the dream of receiving an education.
The club has donated much-needed essentials like ranging from school uniforms, to food and blankets, an effort made possible through fundraising by members. Members host fundraising initiatives each year, and with the proceeds raised they purchase basic items for less fortunate children, some of whichwhom are orphans.
The latest gesture was in support of the annual 67 minutes campaign for Mandela Day, which has the aims ofto motivateing people to dedicate 67 minutes to doing something in aid of their fellow man.
This year the association teamed up with Central24, of which Bloemnuusis a publication, to support children in need. The recipients were of the Heide Primary School, as well as Credence, Joe Solomon and Olympia.
The handing over of the items was done on 30 July at Heide Primary.
Basil Fillies, chairperson, explained that the special focus on school-going children aimed at ensuring they complete their education and become better members of society.
“Children are the future, and we focus on them as we continue building a caring society. When we are old and frail, they should not be ashamed to reach out to help us, too. They should be proud to help us and any members of the society,” said Fillies.
“We are relieving children of the unnecessary burden of starting to work at a young age and in this way being deprived of enjoying their childhood. We are fostering a culture of caring, respect and trust.”
“They must lean on us, as this resonates with our motto to help them realise their dream to become better leaders of tomorrow,” said Fillies.
Guest speaker Markes Butler strongly emphasised the need for children to focus on their education and never give up when they fail. He said education helped his rise after he had failed along the way.
In attendance were parents of the children who benefitted from the donation. Most of the parents are unemployed and depend on charities and community support for survival, apart from state social grants.
In addition to the other items, each child received a Bible.
“The benefit of the Bible is for children to read and have the knowledge of God’s wisdom,” said Kim Morgan of Central24, project coordinator.
She said 20 children of four primary schools were identified, based on their background.
“We are grateful for the commitment of all members and the dedication of the working committee that ensures this is possible every year.”
The outreach tied in with the club marking its 27 years of existence. It is the brainchild of Fillies, who galvanised support after observing the need for a community project.
The club started with ten members, hence it is called Club X.
“However, membership has increased over the years, and currently it has 19 members, men and women,” said Fillies.
