News / National
Smelly uplifts orphans
21 Nov 2024 at 06:32hrs | Views
Gweru-based businesswoman and philanthropist, Smelly Dube, has refurbished an early childhood development (ECD) classroom block for orphaned children in the Midlands capital. The classroom block, established by the local non-governmental organisation, Multi-Aid Support Organisation (Maso), serves as a critical space for the education of vulnerable children in the area.
Dube, who also serves as Maso's brand ambassador, expressed her gratitude to the Maso team for their tireless efforts in ensuring that underprivileged children gain access to education. "I would like to thank the Maso board and team for their sterling work, especially ensuring that less-privileged children access education and other basic rights," Dube said during a donation event on Tuesday.
In addition to the refurbishment work, Dube pledged to purchase school furniture and cover the salaries of two teachers who had been working on a voluntary basis to support the children. She also donated groceries worth over US$1,000 to the orphaned children, ensuring they have access to essential food items.
The refurbishment of the classroom is nearly complete, with only electrical wiring and interior painting left to be done. Dube expressed her satisfaction with the progress made, noting that the facility would soon provide a better learning environment for the children.
Dube's company, River Valley Group of Companies, is also actively supporting Maso's educational programs through its charity arm, S and M Hand of Compassion. River Valley's involvement in the educational initiatives reflects their commitment to corporate social responsibility and contributing to community development.
Maso's Chief Executive, Veronica Nhemachena, praised Dube for her ongoing support for disadvantaged children. "The children we have for this educational program were chosen from the most vulnerable backgrounds. Besides failing to access education, the children lacked adequate food, and we appreciate that Dube has continued to support us with groceries, including food items to cater for the children," Nhemachena said.
Senator for People with Disabilities, Anna Shiri, also commended River Valley for its developmental approach to helping marginalized children. "I am happy that River Valley is moving away from welfarism to a developmental approach," Shiri said, emphasizing the importance of sustainable support for vulnerable communities.
The refurbishment of the ECD classroom and the continued support for orphaned children in Gweru highlight the critical role of individuals and businesses in fostering social development and improving the lives of marginalized communities in Zimbabwe.
Dube, who also serves as Maso's brand ambassador, expressed her gratitude to the Maso team for their tireless efforts in ensuring that underprivileged children gain access to education. "I would like to thank the Maso board and team for their sterling work, especially ensuring that less-privileged children access education and other basic rights," Dube said during a donation event on Tuesday.
In addition to the refurbishment work, Dube pledged to purchase school furniture and cover the salaries of two teachers who had been working on a voluntary basis to support the children. She also donated groceries worth over US$1,000 to the orphaned children, ensuring they have access to essential food items.
The refurbishment of the classroom is nearly complete, with only electrical wiring and interior painting left to be done. Dube expressed her satisfaction with the progress made, noting that the facility would soon provide a better learning environment for the children.
Maso's Chief Executive, Veronica Nhemachena, praised Dube for her ongoing support for disadvantaged children. "The children we have for this educational program were chosen from the most vulnerable backgrounds. Besides failing to access education, the children lacked adequate food, and we appreciate that Dube has continued to support us with groceries, including food items to cater for the children," Nhemachena said.
Senator for People with Disabilities, Anna Shiri, also commended River Valley for its developmental approach to helping marginalized children. "I am happy that River Valley is moving away from welfarism to a developmental approach," Shiri said, emphasizing the importance of sustainable support for vulnerable communities.
The refurbishment of the ECD classroom and the continued support for orphaned children in Gweru highlight the critical role of individuals and businesses in fostering social development and improving the lives of marginalized communities in Zimbabwe.
Source - newsday
