The countdown to one of Cape Town’s biggest charity walks is underway, with just 11 days to go before thousands of participants lace up for the annual Blisters for Bread Charity Family Fun Walk in Green Point.
The fundraiser, organised by the Peninsula School Feeding Association (PSFA) in association with Lucky Star, takes place on Sunday 16 August at the Green Point Common Sports Grounds.
Entries to the walk closed on Sunday 2 August.
On Tuesday last week, 28 July, People’s Post visited two long-standing beneficiary schools to witness how the PSFA’s feeding programme continues to make a difference in the lives of their learners.
The two beneficiaries, Spurwing Primary School and Forest Heights Primary School, both in Eerste River, also received a R1 000 Sportsman’s Warehouse gift voucher each to buy sports equipment.
Spurwing has benefited from the programme for 33 years. Principal Hadley Wentzel said the programme plays a pivotal role.
“We can say with pride that we appreciate what the PSFA does for the school. It is not just about giving them food, it is about restoring their dignity. So much thought goes into the menus that are chosen for the children. The feeding scheme also has a big impact on the children’s academics.”
Grade 2 teacher Bronwyn Kay said many learners rely on the meals they receive at school.
“The feeding scheme has a huge impact on our children. We don’t always know their circumstances so the food they receive is important.
“It allows their brains to open up. When the kids return from the feeding scheme, they are always hyped up and happy because they just had food, you can see the change in their personality.”
Kitchen staff member Angeline de Vos, who has worked at the school for 15 years, said preparing meals for the learners is rewarding.
“I love how the kids’ faces light up when they receive their food. And when they are done, they would compliment us for the nice food. It makes my heart happy knowing you are feeding a child who perhaps had nothing to eat the night before.”
Forest Heights has also been a PSFA beneficiary for 33 years.
Forest Heights Primary School, Chris du Plessis receives the gift voucher from Charles Grey, PSFA Fundraising manager. Pictured with them as learners Lingomso Mayilwe, Thorn Jumat, Miyena Pama and the school’s sports coordinator, Tanya Juries. 
Spurwing Primary School Principal, Hadley Wentzel, receives the gift voucher from Charles Grey, PSFA Fundraising manager and People’s Post editor Thulani Magazi. Pictured with them are learners, Zariah Phillips, Inzolo Yapi, Mattheo Matroos, Renecia March and Yandago Ndozo. Photos: Kaylynne Bantom
Francine Julius, who has worked in the school’s kitchen for 16 years, said serving the learners is more than just a job.
“The children are important to me. I feel happy that I can prepare food for them. Many of them come from homes where there’s nothing to eat.”
Principal Chris du Plessis said the feeding scheme provides a vital safety net for many families.
“Our learners come from diverse backgrounds where some parents are struggling. The school is the only place where some of them can receive a warm and nutritious meal.”
Participants can also collect their race numbers at selected Sportsman’s Warehouse stores across the city.
ALSO READ: Blisters for Bread changes lives through school feeding
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