Thank You Letter From Debbie Schäfer – Minister of Education, Western Cape Government

Dear Niall,

Around the world, the closure of schools as a result of Covid-19 hos disrupted society as we know it. Obviously this also includes education, and social support as well.

The notional lockdown in South Africa hos worsened the socioeconomic conditions that were already causing hunger in many communities, and supporting residents in need is o mammoth task. While the Western Cope Government hos responded by releasing funding for school feeding and community nutrition support, the scale of the need is huge.

The work of organisations like Mellon Educate hos been vital in responding to this need.

I would like to express my thanks to yourself, the Mellon Educate staff and dedicated volunteers for demonstrating once again a clear commitment lo schools and communities in our province. I especially appreciate the fundraising efforts of individuals and groups to supplement the funding released by the Board in order to distribute food parcels to those in desperate need.

As we reopen schools in a phased manner, the support of school communities and charitable organisations will become more important than ever.

Mellon Educate’s continued commitment to support us in the ‘back to school’ process is welcome news, and greatly appreciated.

This is a difficult time for us all, but working together, we will get through it. Thank you for your partnership on this journey.

Regards,

Debbie Schäfer, MPP
Minister of Education, Western Cape