GEORGE NEWS - A cash strapped crèche run from a couple of steel containers in Thembalethu has received a much needed facelift.

After visiting the Sakhingomso Crèche in December, Clive Africa, manager of community services at the Eden district municipality, was shocked to see the conditions the almost 70 toddlers had to endure.
The pre-schoolers were couped up in unbearably hot containers without any ventilation for most of the day. Their meals were cooked inside, sending the already high temperatures soaring.

Africa immediately took action to make the conditions at the day care facility at least bearable.
Some funds were left in the Christmas budget and he realised that a more worthy cause for the unspent R25 000 would be difficult to find.

"I just could not go home to my family and coming Christmas lunch knowing what these children had to endure. The lack of space and stifling air created inhumane conditions."

Africa appointed a contractor to cut doors and windows in the sides of the stuffy containers, ensuring a constant flow of fresh air. Proper doors and window panels were fitted and the containers were painted in bright colours. A third container that was never used because of a blocked entrance, has been transformed into a separate kitchen.

The surrounding area has been cleaned and the long grass and weeds cut down, creating a tidy lawn. New mobile toilets were also installed.
This year more than 100 children will be accommodated in the crèche.

Mavis Nako, who started the crèche with only seven tots in 2006, says she desperately needs electricity and water at the facility. "I have requested the George Municipality to provide me with this, but as of yet to no avail."

Africa said Eden would try and help Mavis in this regard and that air conditioners would greatly enhance conditions. "The doors and windows bring relief but it still gets too hot inside. It would be ideal if we could find a sponsor or sponsors for an air conditioning unit."

Mavis charges R70 per month per child and this small fee includes two meals a day.

To lend a helping hand with supplies of any kind or to donate money or goods, contact Patrick Laws at the Eden district municipality at 044 803 1300.


Posing proudly in front of the humanitarian crèche project in Thembalethu are, from the left, contractor Andrew Mayekiso, crèche owner Mavis Nako, Eden community services head Clive Africa and Eden councillor, Piet van der Hoven.

ARTICLE AND PHOTOS: ILSE SCHOONRAAD