Excitement was evident on the faces of members of the Our Helder Early Childhood Development (ECD) Forum as they received equipment donated by the Ward 86 councillor, Xolani Diniso, on Wednesday 22 April. A total of 15 ECD centres benefited from the initiative, each receiving 10 mattresses, a storage box, broom, pair of large scissors, paper towel and counter book.
Forum welcomes timely intervention amid resource challenges
Forum chairperson Mandisa December said the equipment arrived at the right time as many centres could not afford to buy these items themselves.
“We are very excited. It means a lot to us. The equipment will make a difference. We thank the councillor for his unwavering support. We appreciate what he has given us.”
Parents urged to prioritise formal ECD care for children
December also urged parents to stop keeping children at home or leaving them in the care of relatives or neighbours while they go out to work. She emphasised that ECD centres had improved significantly.
“Parents must stop leaving children with uncles or neighbours. ECDs are not just schools; they are safe spaces for children as well.”
READ ALSO: Ward 87 ECDs receive valuable donations for child development
Councillor highlights importance of early childhood development
Diniso said the equipment was purchased using the ward allocation budget. He described ECD centres as a critical stage in a child’s development.
“We do not take ECDs for granted. They are doing a great job for our community and are moulding our future leaders. The equipment may seem small to some, but it means a lot to the teachers. I am aware of some of their challenges, and I am prepared to stand with them.”
He also highlighted the difficulty of applying for zoning approval from the City as one of the key challenges facing ECD centres.
