The Navy Brings Gifts Article and photos by LS H.N.P. Ngcongo Enquiries: 021 787 4697

On Tuesday 5 June 2011, Naval Station Durban (NSD) heeded the call for support made by Mbalasi Primary School and Sarva Dharma Ashram Home. Both these organisations were showered with boxes of clothing and toys that had been collected over a period of time by members of the station. 

Members of the SA Navy hand over gifts to members of Sarva Dharma Ashram. From left to right SWO Mapipa, Mr Mavundl

As winter begins and with the weather patterns becoming viciously cold, one is forced to remember the warm clothing that was almost forgotten about during summer season. During this time one also need to remind oneself of those who are less fortunate and lend a helping hand. In the true spirit of Ubuntu and as a sign of sharing and caring, members of NSD took the initiative to collect clothing and toys during summer and autumn to give to those in need during winter.

A tool kit was included to contribute towards the maintenence of the school.	Boxes of clothes and toys that were donated..

Mbalasi Primary School is a school situated in Umlazi and educates a total of 560 learners who are mostly orphaned by HIV/AIDS and come from very poor backgrounds. Many of the learners hardly have full uniforms and walk to school barefoot. The school runs a feeding scheme and depends highly on donations to keep the children clothed and fed. Learners and teachers were highly delighted at the gifts they received from NSD. Mrs Manqele, Principal of Mbalase Primary School extended her appreciation.

The learners and educators were more than delighted to recieve gifts from the SA Navy.

The Sarva Dharma Ashram is a home of comfort to many, as it is a non-profit organisation that provides those in need with food and clothes. This organisation also depends on donations from the public as well as making street collections to distribute to the destitute. This organisation prepares fresh meals for a lot of people who depend on this organisation for at least one meal a day. They also distribute food to three neighbouring NGO’s and HIV/AIDS patients daily. 

Leaders from both institutions extended much appreciation to members of the SA Navy who contributed in ensuring the success of the collection and delivering of this special donation.