A Cape Town volunteer is making it her mission to ensure vulnerable learners at Salt River High School do not have to face the school day hungry.

Margolite Williams, who has been volunteering at the school, has launched several initiatives aimed at supporting learners both inside and outside the classroom.

Working with a group of volunteers, Williams provides weekly food parcels, hygiene packs and additional support programmes for learners from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Williams said many learners at the school come from disadvantaged backgrounds.

“We have learners at our school who live on the street, and some are orphans with no food. With the economy like it is, many of our learners’ parents are unemployed and cannot feed their children,” she said.

She explained that there is a growing need among learners.

“We also try and give them hygiene packs once a month, including toothpaste, soap and deodorant. We get sanitary products donated already,” said Williams.

She added that clothing donations are also welcomed.

Beyond food assistance, Williams and her volunteer group are also focused on creating better opportunities for learners through education support and school improvement projects.

“Working with these learners has humbled me and it makes our volunteer group more determined to make these learners get a better chance in life,” she said.

The group is appealing to residents who can volunteer their time and skills during school hours.

“This includes people with experience in high school education to assist with learning programmes, volunteers for the feeding scheme and library, as well as individuals with building and maintenance skills.”

Williams said interested residents can join a volunteer roster or assist through donations.

Contact Williams on 079 495 4433 for more information or to assist. Send e-mail to Margolitewilliams@gmail.com

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