Tokai Lions and children unite for environmental clean-up initiative

The Lions Club of Tokai brought children and community members together on Saturday, September 27, for a project that combined environmental care with fun.

The event, called Bag-a-Burger, was hosted in partnership with Every Nation Church in Retreat and formed part of Lions International’s Environmental Service Pillar.

It was also timed to mark World Clean-up Day, which took place a week earlier on Saturday, September 20.

“World Clean-up Day is a global event that mobilises millions of volunteers to combat waste pollution and promote environmental sustainability,” said Mark Rossouw from the Tokai Lions.

The project saw 50 children from CAFDA Village roll up their sleeves to clean the streets of their own community, the same places where they live and play.

Mr Rossouw said it was about much more than just picking up litter.

“The children were educated about the importance of protecting and caring for their environment, helping to build a sense of responsibility for the planet from a young age,” he explained.

As a thank you for their hard work, each child was treated to a hamburger, fruit, and a cold drink, making the day both meaningful and enjoyable.

Mr Rossouw said the Lions were grateful to everyone who made the event possible.

“We extend our heartfelt thanks to Alderman Shanen Rossouw, the Ward 110 councillor, for organising the refuse bags; to Every Nation Church for providing the venue and the children; and to all our club members and potential members whose commitment made the day a success,” he said.

He added that the initiative had an impact that extended beyond the clean-up itself.

“The project not only left the streets cleaner but also planted seeds of environmental awareness in the next generation.”