A recent initiative by the FirstRand Volunteers programme saw 234 blankets and an equal number of crocheted beanies and scarves delivered to several of the Early Childhood Development centres partnering with The Domino Foundation in the Toti area.
Claudia Alexander, point person for the programme, explained: “The vision is one of ‘action with purpose’ to encourage employee/community involvement where employees from across FNB have opportunities to make a real difference by matching their time and monetary donations to their chosen organisation or school.”
Claudia said that the support the programme provides includes rand-for-rand matched funding for employee donations and sourcing of organisations to support. “We have had a relationship with Domino for a number of years and have become increasingly aware of the needs of the little preschoolers in crèches the NPO works with.”
When the volunteers in the Ethekwini area heard of the work being done to meet the physical and educational needs of the 1447 children in the 31 centres, the decision was made. Contact was made with the residents of an old-age home in Athlone Park, who set to work to produce the beanies and scarves, and the blankets were secured through the Volunteers.
Team leader of Domino’s Nutrition programme in the Toti area, Cheryl Dann, exclaimed “The mamas were absolutely delighted and so grateful!” Both she and Claudia issued a challenge: simple maths shows that FNB Volunteers’ generous donation is impacting about 15% of the preschoolers in the crèches. The two ladies are encouraging businesses, other groups and individuals alike to make their contributions to ensure a warmer Winter for the other 85%. Cheryl can be contacted at nutritionsouth @ domino.org.za.
