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| Timken customer service employees donated over 60 underpants to boy learners. |
According to Relebogile Mahlaba, a representative of the Timken team, the company became aware of the pressing need after a visit to the school. "The first time other members of our company came to this school, they learned about the needs of the students, particularly the boys," said Mahlaba. “While there was no budget for this initiative, we as staff members raised funds from our own pockets to support these children."
The donations were part of a broader commitment to continue assisting the school with its needs. Mahlaba emphasized that the team plans to raise additional funds and work with the company’s HR department to ensure further support for the school in the future. “We will continue to help where possible,” she added.
Lindiwe Vilakazi, the school principal, expressed gratitude for the contributions, highlighting the positive impact on the students. “We are focusing on boys this year,” Vilakazi said. “It’s easy to overlook them, with many initiatives targeting girls. But boys, too, need recognition, love, and support.”
Vilakazi also mentioned that the school’s theme for the year is “amazing grace,” underscoring the importance of nurturing every child, regardless of gender. “Timken has promised to continue supporting our boys with toiletries when they return,” she added.
Through this thoughtful donation, Timken not only addressed an immediate need but also provided a boost to the self-esteem of the boys at Michael Zulu Primary School, demonstrating the power of community solidarity in shaping brighter futures for all students.