By Katelyn Panzarella | Resource Mobilization Officer
Given the circumstance of this year, specifically the time between last reporting period and now, there is not much to report on regarding this project as schools have remained closed to all grades other than those writing external examinations within the next two months. However, the concept of proper hygiene has now become more important than ever, and even though the original project concept cannot be fulfilled this year, Moya has a plan to get our children the resources they need to stay clean, feel confident and increase their risk of viral transmission.
This project was originally designed around the Peer Supporter program Moya manages within our local schools. Given the situation of Covid-19 this year and schools closing, the Peer Supporter program was put on hold, and it is clear now that it will remain that way until schools reopen next year. This initiative was in partnership with the guidance programs within the schools, and in an effort to continue with a sustainable initiative, we’d prefer that it remain that way. When the Peer Supporter Program continues next year, so will the dignity packs. However, we have decided to take a different approach with the dignity packs for the few students in school in the upcoming weeks until exams are complete.
Local schools have recently reached out to Moya Centre with the concern that they do not have the proper hygiene items to ensure the schools remain a safe environment for the grades that are attending. We have decided that for those students faced with the harsh reality of taking exams to move to the next grade, despite having limited learning throughout the year, we will provide modified dignity packs that will focus more on items to prevent the transmission of Covid-19, while also include other important items such as sanitary pads for female students. We will complete this initiative within the coming weeks. As a community-based organization, we are accustomed to altering our plan to fit with the needs of our community and this is an example of that.
We are hopeful that with Giving Tuesday approaching, our friends both within Eswatini and abroad will support us in ensuring our holiday campaign is a success, and many children will have proper hygiene items as they write their exams and leave school for the holiday break. I am sure you can agree that hygiene items are even more important and more appreciated this year than ever before, and would make a perfect holiday gift for the children within our communities. Please consider revisiting our project page with this thought I mind, and also sharing the story of our work with your friends and family.
By Katelyn Panzarella | Coms, Data, Events & Resource Mobilization Manager
By Katelyn Panzarella | Fundraising Manager
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