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MEC of Social Services and Poverty Relief today announced the development of a crèche for Siphatisiswe in kwaNonqaba close to Mossel Bay.

After the MEC visited the Southern Cape, he saw the dire need for the development of some facilities for this specific crèche and started to muster support from the companies involved in the area.

Two major sponsors for this specific project immediately supported him and now work on the development of the crèche can start almost immediately.

Safmarine has donated 5 containers, which can be refurbished and with some structural support, be made into a very comfortable facility for at least 90 children. Irvin & Johnson have joined the initiative and have pledged an amount which will cover the structural work on the project. The local Mayor, Mr. Andre Nel, has also supported the project by offering assistance from local businessmen.

"This is a prime example of where the public sector and business can come together and help the community. Without this kind of private sector assistance, the government will not be able to reach everywhere. I would like to sincerely thank these companies for this kind of support and hope that their efforts will bring joy and new opportunities to many children in future. It is also an example of provincial and local government collaboration and proof of the intent to deliver to all the people of the province" said the MEC

The development with an estimated value of more than R 200 000 will start immediately and by the beginning of spring, the pupils of Siphatisiswe will have a "new" school.

Contact: Sam Dodgen on (021) 483 5457/ 082 821 9018.

Issued by: Office of the MEC for Social Services and Poverty Relief, Western Cape, 8 June 2001