The backlash of the past year has been more damaging for some than others. As a non-government funded school, Esperanza Special Needs School absorbed a massive loss due to the lockdown regulations. Jennifer Pillay, principal of the school, elaborates, “For this year, we had 65 children enrolled. But, due to schools being closed for so many months, we did not get school fees.”
Moreover, the school could not hold any fund-raising initiatives over recent months due to the COVID-19 situation. That is until Saturday, 12 December 2020, when Esperanza Special Needs school hosted its annual golf day.
Jennifer points out, “This golf day is important for us, as this is our first fund-raiser for the year. We really need the funds to help cover our rent.”
As the school grapples with the financial challenges created in the wake of the pandemic, working hard to raise funds through initiatives such as the golf day—Jennifer clarifies the importance of the school, “Special needs children must interact with others, as well as do academic work, in order for them to develop and grow as individuals.”
With these youngsters finding solace in their school, their classmates and their educators, Esperanza Special Needs School undoubtedly require the assistance of the community.
Hearing the call for help, Newcastle’s golfing community rallied together at the local Golf Club on Saturday.
Prior to the sudden rainfall, golfers were out and about in full force, socialising and proving their prowess on the fairway, all in the name of charity.
With good festive cheer prevailing at the golf course, Newcastle’s golfers deserve a round of applause for their efforts in helping the school keep going.
Authors: Quinton Boucher and Calvin Swemmer
Edited: Calvin Swemmer
