Noah’s Ark in Pellsrus is one of 20 ECD Centres that received COVID-19 masks, funded by Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm, made by local NGO, On Eagles Wings. The Farm manufactured and distributed of 5,000 Covid-19 masks for learners in Pre-Grade R to Grade 4 and staff at 17 primary schools and 20 early childhood development (ECD) centres across Jeffreys Bay.
The playschool takes care of around 140 children between the age of one and six, offering a safe and caring environment as well as two meals a day.Parents at the ECD Centre expressed their excitement and appreciation when receiving the masks as many of the children didn’t have an adequate supply of masks.
These masks are different because they resonate with efforts to support and protect victims of gender-based violence. For instance, each mask has been sewn with Lifeline’s counselling number to report violence or child abuse.
“By contracting this local NGO, the project not only helps keep young children safe but also created short term employment for the members of the organization as they sewed and packaged the masks,” explained Hlengiwe Radebe, Director of economic development for Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm.
In an effort to help the government curb the spread of the virus in schools, The Department of Social Development has given a directive that young children should wear masks, especially where there may be young children with Covid-19 or flu-like symptoms.
A team of four women from On Eagles Wings Multi-Purpose Centre sewed the masks at their homes due to Covid regulations, whilst Mercy Cwayi co-ordinated the collection and delivery of the material and other supplies to the team.
“In addition to the masks, many of our team are out in the community, teaching people how to take care not only of themselves but of other people, especially those caring for elderly family members. We continue to share about the importance of sanitisers, washing hands, taking care of masks and social distancing,” concluded Cwayi.
