Engen employee Bernadette Johannisen has helped raise funds to support Shaylex Community Projects, an NPO based in Bonteheuwel on the Cape Flats that focuses on community feeding and literacy programmes for children.

Bernadette, a master data co-ordinator at Engen, utilised the company’s Employee Community Partnership Programme (ECPP) to secure R5,000 to purchase groceries and other essentials for Shaylex.

Explains Bernadette: “What started out as random days of feeding children in the area escalated over the COVID-19 period, when we discovered many children, families, and even the elderly in a nearby old age home in need of support.

“More recently, a book club called BonteKids was established after discovering that many children in grade 4 and up were struggling with reading. The focus is to improve the reading skills of young children, and it is difficult to learn on an empty stomach. The organisation is now able to nourish both hungry tummies and hungry minds.”

Anthea Trout, chairperson of Shaylex Community Projects, extends gratitude to Bernadette and Engen for their generous support.

“This project can only sustain itself through ongoing donations, sponsorships, and assistance from companies like Engen. We rely on the community to give back, with unemployed adults volunteering to read to the children every afternoon. The children receive a sandwich and fruit, and once a week, a cooked meal,” comments Trout.

Bernadette, who volunteers at feeding events on weekends and recently assisted with the distribution of caps, scarves, and blankets to children and the elderly says the funds from Engen will be used to make the lives of the elderly and children more comfortable.

“I’m proud to be a part of this initiative which feeds hungry tummies and nourishes the minds of children through the reading group,” she adds.

Engen’s CSI Manager, Olwethu Mdabula says Engen is committed to supporting the communities in which we operate.

“Initiatives like Shaylex Community Projects and their book club are vital in uplifting those in need, and we are proud to contribute to their efforts.”

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