Gift of the Givers donates computers to Athlone School for the Blind on 33rd anniversary

The Gift of the Givers marked their 33rd anniversary on Wednesday by celebrating not with cake, but with computers.

The organisation donated 15 new machines and upgraded software to Athlone School for the Blind in Bellville South.

Project coordinator Ali Sablay said the humanitarian organisation first partnered with the school in 2011, drawn by the needs of the learners and the dedication of the staff.

“We heard about the school and came on board in 2011, wanting to see how we could better the lives of the learners and future generations,” said Sablay.

“We saw that the dormitories and kitchen needed upgrades, and we donated. We fell in love with the school not only because of the educators’ commitment, but also the learners.”

Sablay said the organisation was touched by the resilience of the children: “We know some of you come from challenging backgrounds, yet you always show smiles, love and compassion, and that touches us.”

Over the years, the Gift of the Givers has provided monthly groceries to support the school.

Sablay also proudly recalled that two years ago, learners from Athlone School for the Blind earned second and third place in a fiesta competition.

“That put the school on the map, and we are very proud to be associated with it.”

He said when the organisation was considering where to celebrate its birthday this year, the decision was easy.

“Technology progresses, and when you guys leave school, job opportunities are very few if you don’t have the necessary skills. We then met with the school, and they told us they would like the computer lab upgraded to make it blind-friendly.

“The skills you learn here can be taken with you when you seek employment. We decided to donate 15 computers and software upgrades, and we will also provide the accessories needed,” he said.

Sablay announced that this was only the beginning.

“The next step is the astroturf for the school,” he said, adding that they would also provide free computer skills classes to learners, complete with certificates to prepare them for the job market.

And to ensure the children are looked after even outside of term time, Sablay added: “We’ll be giving groceries to each learner over the holidays so that they have food at home.”

Principal Gail Williams said it was an honour to host the organisation on their special day.

“In the spirit of selfless giving, you have chosen not to receive gifts on your special day, but instead you have come to give,” she said. “You have blessed our school with generous gifts in the form of computers and thoughtful presents for learners and staff. This act of kindness speaks volumes about your values and your commitment to uplift others.”

She also acknowledged the longstanding partnership with the Athlone School for the Blind Association, which has helped facilitate the school’s relationship with the Gift of the Givers.

“The organisation stands true to their motto: ‘Best among people are those who benefit mankind.’ Thank you for choosing to celebrate with us. May this anniversary be filled with joy, pride, and the knowledge that your impact reaches far and wide.”

Grade 11 learner Gift Bafo gave an emotional thank you on behalf of his fellow learners.

“You have contributed towards our lives by not making us feel marginalised,” he said. “Thank you for ensuring that we are part of this community. We have great devices that have the potential to move us from the sighted, but the Gift of the Givers has shown us that we are not moving away; we are getting closer.

“By giving us these computers, you are really getting the best out of all of us.”

School Governing Body chairperson Bukelwa Sigila said the organisation’s continued support meant the world to parents and learners alike.

“Thank you very much to the Gift of the Givers for supporting us as parents, for knowing that we come from different backgrounds and therefore have different needs, over and above the physical challenges we face, we have challenges in our social lives and our communities.

“But guess what? Because there are people like the Gift of the Givers, we feel those challenges are nothing.

“They have made our children feel like the world is their oyster. We feel that we are going to go out there and show them who we are, because we know that where we come from does not determine where we’re going.

“Even if my body is physically impaired, I am disabled, I am blind, I cannot see, that does not determine who I am or what my future is going to be. These computers are going to do a great deal of that, and thank you very much once more. As parents, this doesn’t go unnoticed.”

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