It Has Brought So Much Joy
It may be difficult to understand the big commotion at Sophie’s Creche. At a glance, most Americans would think, “looks like a plastic tarp.” But, for the creche kids and staff, this royal blue tarp is called Shade Netting and it is a very big deal. When you live in Africa with no air conditioning, and little relief from the beating sun, you learn what shade netting is pretty fast. Especially when you don’t have it. Things just got a lot cooler at Sophie’s Creche with the new shade netting.
It’s only been up for a short time, but the staff is already talking about how it’s making a difference.
Sophie Manganye, the creche administrator, described the “excitement and happiness” she felt when she first saw the completed shade. She says it has brought joy and laughter to the children and staff, who can now spend time outside “from the hotness they were feeling from the classrooms."
Teacher Nosipho Qwabe says the new shade has made the school more comfortable and will protect the children during playtime. Teacher Betty Marokane thanked everyone who supported the project for “loving our children and our creche as your own.”
Puleng Tshabalala perhaps summed up the impact best: the children now have protections from the harsh sun during assemblies, break time and school functions. The shade has also improved the comfort and beauty of their school.
Their WhatsApp messages below share one common theme: gratitude
And, Aid Africa’s Children is very grateful to all those who have helped us create a positive impact for children in Africa. Thank you so much!