Fifty children from Westlake took part in a community clean-up on Saturday 14 March. This was part of the Bag-a-Burger project hosted by the Lions Club of Tokai.
The initiative was organised in partnership with Blue Route Mall and Wimpy Blue Route Mall. It also coincided with the International Day of Action for Rivers.
Children worked together to clean streets in their neighbourhood, collecting litter in areas where they live and play. Equipped with refuse bags and gloves, they moved through residential roads and public spaces, removing plastic, paper, and other waste.
Organisers also used the activity to teach environmental lessons. Children learned why a clean environment matters, how litter affects rivers and wildlife, and how small daily actions can make a difference in their communities.
A highlight of the day was a visit from “Bingo”, the anti-litter mascot of the City of Cape Town. Bingo and the team spoke to the children about littering, proper waste disposal, and the benefits of recycling. The interactive session encouraged children to ask questions and share what they had learned.
After the clean-up, each child received a hamburger meal and fruit as a thank-you for their efforts. The meal also gave participants time to socialise and reflect on the morning’s work.
“Projects like Bag-a-Burger help children understand the importance of looking after their environment while also bringing the community together,” said Mark Rossouw, media chair of the Lions Club of Tokai. He thanked Ward 71 councillor Carolyne Franklin, who assisted with providing refuse bags.
Rossouw added that Wimpy Blue Route Mall sponsored the meals, while Blue Route Mall helped with hosting and logistics.
The venue was provided by the Westlake United Church Trust, which served as a central meeting point for children, organisers, and volunteers. Rossouw also thanked club members and community volunteers who coordinated the event, supervised the children, and managed operations throughout the day.
