The Ysterplaat Education Centre officially open its doors recently, which was made possible by the National War Memorial Health Foundation.
Chair of the foundation Izak Mahali says the foundation received an immensely generous donation in 2006 from the JDB Rigby Family Trust to extend their services to areas where the need exists.
“That money didn’t find its way into the personal bank accounts of any of the Executive Committee members, neither was it used for salaries or running costs. The funds were invested, so it could be used for the purpose it was intended for. And so ladies and gentlemen, what you see here today is the proceeds from the donation,” Mahali said at the opening.
The exco unanimously resolved to name the new building “Rigby House” to acknowledge and honour the Rigby family for their generous donation and investment in early childhood education.
Mahali says all their centres comply with the minimum registration requirements, are fully resourced with equipment and learning materials, as well as qualified education practitioners.
“Furthermore, our centres are easily accessible and the fees affordable. In 1945 the South African forces decided that instead of building a conventional memorial building they would rather honour their fallen comrades to leave a lasting memory after the Second World War. We remain incredibly grateful to the troops for their vision and foresight.
“Last week, exactly 76 years ago on Tuesday 3 September 1946, in the Cathedral Hall in Wale Street, the inaugural meeting of this foundation took place. And so, the National War Memorial Health Foundation was founded as a living memorial to the 12 000 South Africans who lost their lives during the War,” Mahali says.
The foundation opened its first centre in 1947, from very humble beginnings in a small Community Centre in Elsies River, called Helpmekaar. The first crèche called Goodwood Centre was opened in April 1950. The foundation has since established a massive footprint over more than 75 years.
“Despite the dire economic circumstances and financial constraints, we managed to continue providing this very essential service to the most vulnerable and valued in society, our children. I wish to thank the exco members for their support, our dedicated staff who often go above and beyond the call of duty, performing tasks outside the scope of their normal duties, offering love and hope to our children.
“Thank you to our parents, volunteers and donors for their unselfish contributions and commitment over the years.”
