You were with us on some very wonderful and moving days

We asked you to help us get our rural children in several provinces back to school in January. Not just ‘back to school or starting school’ but equipped to do so.

‘Thank you’ for giving so generously to make this happen.

Your ‘back to school’ gifts allowed our territorial leaders to head up the campaign trail to places where the need was greatest.

There was great excitement each time as we drove through the school gates. The little ones in Grades 0, 1 and 2 gazed in wonderment out of the windows asking one another what could be happening. The older children were questioning why we were there.

As Commissioners Stephen and Theresa Malins – who head up The Salvation Army across the whole of its Southern Africa Territory – began handing out the essential school items, an orderly queue formed quickly, and shiny, wide-eyed faces broke into broad smiles.

As we promised you when we asked, your kindness was spread across the following necessities:

• School uniform trousers, skirts and shirts.
• Shoes to protect young feet on long walks to and from school in all weathers.
• Start-up stationery
• Some jerseys and track suits for the coming winter.
• Backpacks for those who didn’t own one.
• Even some school ties for the senior children.

‘Thank you’ was shyly whispered as each child received their welcome gift.

You helped to make so many differences for the children in these disadvantaged communities. Not only did you help to prepare learners for the new school year, you also eased some of the financial pressure which many families experience at this time of year.

How we wished that you could have been with us to personally experience even just one of these wonderful and moving days, when your presence and ours is welcomed with such relief and gratitude.

In total, 300 children benefited – not only with the physical items, but the reminder to families that they are seen, valued and supported through simple acts of care.

As Salvationists, our mission is to express God’s love in practical ways – ways in which you are our invaluable partners.

Thank you – we couldn’t do what we do without you.