Some of the community members who participated in Peak Fitness’ workout session for charity on November 23 at Jeffreys Bay Main Beach.
The JBay Recycling Project is thrilled to be spreading some festive cheer this year, thanks to a wonderful donation from Peak Fitness, which has enabled the organisation to host its annual Christmas party for 300 children on December 9.
By hosting a beach fitness session in November, Peak Fitness, a local gym facility, managed to raise R7 000 for the non-profit organisation, JBay Recycling Project.
To further boost the funds raised, Peak matched the amount and handed over a substantial R14 000 to the NPO.
As previously reported, the JBay Recycling Project was established in 2011 to alleviate poverty and pollution by providing access to basic essentials for children, while simultaneously cleaning up the environment and educating the youth about the importance of a healthy environment.
Every Monday after school, children from the community deliver recyclable material, which is then weighed and each child is rewarded with points, referred to as “mula”.
These points can be used to “buy” items like toiletries, food, stationery, second-hand clothing, and toys from their swap shop.
Chris Oman, the owner of Peak, mentioned that they were inspired to raise funds for the JBay Recycling Project after being approached by Clair and Matt Hill, who are members of Peak and volunteers for the NPO.
He said they eagerly took the opportunity to support the organisation’s Christmas party hamper drive for 300 children, with Clair and Matt suggesting a fun workout to involve the community.
Chris noted that event organisers, Marli Fairbrother, Melissa Fouche, Linzelle Domoney, and Beauty Kahona, collaborated to host an enjoyable event where both members and non-members of Peak gathered to support a good cause on November 23 at Jeffreys Bay Main Beach.
On the day, they focused on two basic functional workouts suitable for all ages.
It’s a cause to build up children and teach them valuable life lessons. It empowers them and gives them a voice.
Chris
Clair mentioned that the Peak workout provided the necessary visibility and much-needed funds, with Smhart Security contributing an additional R1 000.
“It was a fantastic event that we hope to run more often. We also need ideas for other events that we can get involved in,” Clair added.
With the funds amounting to R15 000, they plan to host their annual Christmas party, a highly anticipated event with 300 children expected to attend.
Clair stated they will be handing out 300 Christmas hampers, and a boerewors roll to each child.
Additionally, they have received second-hand toys from Jeffreys Bay Primary School, which will also be distributed on the day. “For many of the kids, this is the only gift they will get this Christmas,” she said.
Despite appreciating the R15 000 raised, Clair said they need additional funding since the amount covers only 150 hampers. Furthermore, they require relish for the boerewors rolls and assistance on the day of the event.
Additional financial assistance needed for 2025
As the NPO relies on donations to operate, Clair expressed the need for food sponsorships from local restaurants or businesses
or discounted food to distribute to the children on Mondays.
Fortunately, they have received monthly food contributions from InFood Bakery & Deli and Nina’s Real Food, for which they are very grateful.
“It is important for people to realise that the recycling project is run completely by a group of volunteers. The only individuals who are paid for their services are the eight people from the Pellsrus community who handle the waste,” said Clair.
Looking ahead to the new year, Clair mentioned their plans to raise funds for Easter eggs to distribute to the children in April 2025, and to receive donations of school shoes and clothing for the children.
They also require additional clothing, shoes, and second-hand toys in good condition.
Additionally, she stated the need for a solar geyser for the building as they have been using cold water for a long time.
An ongoing requirement is regular volunteers who can assist on Mondays, their busiest days.
