An Elsies River school teacher is on a mission to make life better for learners.
Not only has he painted the school and fed the children thousands of meals, he is now raising funds to put a fence around the primary school to keep laaities safe.
The Elnor Primary School sports field has over the years become a dumping site for residents and a battleground for gangsters.
Without a fence round the field, there is nothing the school can do to keep them out.
But teacher Dillon Henwood wants to change all this, and aims to raise R250 000 to install a perimeter fence around the field.
“There are animal carcasses, building rubble and other general waste on the field,” he explains.
“This land has become a breeding ground for flies, fleas, rodents and other creatures which have also infested our classrooms.”
Dillon adds that there are children who have lost their lives on the field.
The onnie is passionate about uplifting the community where he teaches.
Last year, together with other teachers, they raised funds to paint the school.
He has also served 77 895 meals during the holidays, and provided uniforms as well as thousands of stationery items for the learners.
He achieved all this in his three years at the school.
“The children inspired me to start these projects. When you truly take the time to understand exactly what these children’s lives are like, and what they have to endure, you will realise how deserving they are,” says Dillon.
He says often people are quick to judge without trying to assist the community.
“People are quick to call them skollies or similar derogatory names because they lack the understanding of what it’s like to fend for your life at such a young age.
“Many of our children’s basic needs are neglected, and they really just need someone to show them that they matter, too.”
He is asking people to donate towards the fence.
Parent Nico Sevatie says they would appreciate assistance from the public.
“Our children need this space for playing. This is a no-fee paying school and our area is poverty-stricken. We cannot afford to pay for the cleaning and fencing of the field.”
Anyone who would like to make a donation can contact Dillon on 082 588 7990 or the school on 021 931 0915.
Or donate to: The Stacy Francis Music, Arts and Education Foundation; First National Bank; Account number 62869677983; branch code 250655; account type Business Cheque; swift code FIRNZAJJ.