Learners pleased to receive help

MOSSEL BAY NEWS - There was a particularly festive atmosphere in the Imekhaya Primary School hall on Wednesday, when parcels were handed out to learners.

The children given assistance are all part of the Piet Julies Action Group and the sponsorship was made possible by the Garden Route Casino Community Trust.

This year schools in the greater Mossel Bay area were assisted, including the Siyanithanda Centre for learners with disabilities.

The director of operations and complex general manager at the Garden Route Casino, Ryan Nicholas, attended the handover, his first since taking over the management reins at the casino last year.

"It's very rewarding being here. In a world filled with so many negative things, this is so absolutely positive." Nicholas said it was a privilege to be fortunate enough to sign cheques for sponsorship. "That's all we can do to make things better for people in the greater Mossel Bay area."

The vote of thanks was delivered by a young man, Siyamthanda Fillies, who has been with the Piet Julies Action Group since he was six years old.

This was his twelfth year receiving a much-needed parcel of necessities to start the new school year. Both Siyamthanda Fillies' parents died when he was only six and he has since lived with his grandmother.

"The best part of school is that first day, when you can wear a new uniform. Being part of Piet Julies has helped me big time during my school years. It motivates me to do well. And Aunty Rita (Kayster from the Piet Julies Action Group) is like a mother to me." Siyamthanda is a Grade 11 learner, who is dreaming of becoming a pilot. Having been a learner at Hillcrest, he is starting school at Indwe Secondary School in preparation for the future.