Kea Members lend a helping hand in Soweto

12 March 2011

As part of its social responsibility programme, members of Kea (Gauteng branch) turned out on March 12 for a working bee at the Carl Sithole Salvation Army Home for orphans and vulnerable children, in Soweto.

Assisted by the children, one group of Kea volunteers planted fruit trees and a kitchen garden at the home, while a second group gave a facelift to one of the common rooms in the boys' living area.  Several experienced gardeners in the group spent time teaching the children how to plant and care for the vegetable seedlings, while others Kea members taught the boys some basic painting techniques.

Supplies for both the garden and painting project were donated by Kea members and local business contacts.  The volunteers also brought donations of clothing, toys and sports equipment for the children.   

Planting citrus trees for both shade and fruit.

Learning some paintbrush skills from a Kea volunteer.

Planting vegetable seedlings in garden beds.

Tyres used to insulate seeds in the vegetable garden

Johannesburg-based Salvation Army kiwi volunteer couple help with painting.

NZ High Commissioner prepared the ground, with some help from older boys

Walls of the boys' room - before and after a fresh coat of paint

Fruit trees ready for planting