Abahlali make sure pupils are covered

SPREADING love can make a difference.

This was the sentiment of Fountain of Love Orphanage project manager, Nozipho Masango.

The centre, which is based in Katlehong, Ekurhuleni hosted a neat book campaign on Saturday, 18 January to cover books for needy kids from in and around the area as well as Zonkezizwe.

Nozipho said more than 200 kids brought their books to be covered by the centre.

"Some of these children come from disadvantaged backgrounds where their parents are not working and cannot afford to cover their books. Through the initiative, we want to make a difference to these kids so they cannot feel different from other pupils," she said.

Rosy Mthembu, the founder of the centre, said the campaign has been running for three years.

"I want to thank the sponsors who donated covers and the community who came in numbers to help us cover the books," said Rosy.

Lethola Tsalong from Zookeepa Clothing said he and colleagues decided to help the centre.

"This is part of giving back to the community and giving manpower to the centre. We have lost count of the books we covered for the children and we look forward to working with the centre on this project," said Lethola.

The happy pupils said their books looked nice and neat.

Banele Madonsela, a grade 4 pupil, said she's happy that her books were covered.

ALSO READ | WATCH: Police van set on fire!Opens in new window

"Most of my classmates came with their books covered the day after the reopening of schools. My parents couldn't afford to buy me covers, but now it's water under the bridge because the centre has helped me and other needy children," said Banele.

Sinokuhle Shabangu (14), a grade 8 pupil, thanked the centre for spreading love to the kids in need.

"What they've done for us will boost our confidence at school because our books will look the same as other pupils' books," said Sinokuhle.