On 24 October, the Rotary Club of Waterfront gathered at the Christine Revelle Children’s Home (CRCH) to celebrate the launch of a transformative garden project for the home’s youngest residents.
Led by Club Captain Mymoena Ismail, the Sod Turning Event brought together esteemed guests, Rotarians, CRCH staff, and friends, showcasing a powerful collaboration dedicated to nurturing a sustainable and enriching environment for children aged three months from birth to five years.
“This project is about more than just planting a garden or installing a borehole; it’s about making a real difference in the lives of these little ones,” Mymoena emphasized. With the support of Rotary District 9350 and the dedicated CRCH team, the Rotary Club aims to provide not only fresh food but also a safe and stimulating space for growth and learning.
The garden project draws inspiration from successful global initiatives that recognize the value of early exposure to nature. Programs like Japan’s “Kindergarten with No Walls” and the Edible Schoolyard Project in the U.S. demonstrate how gardening teaches children essential life skills, including teamwork, patience, and responsibility. The CRCH garden will similarly enhance the children’s social, mental, and physical well-being, offering them a connection to nature and a sense of accomplishment through growing and harvesting their own food.
Community Development Director Piet Postema remarked, “This project stands as a symbol of Rotary’s bold commitment to sustainable change. It’s an investment in resilience and self-sufficiency, equipping these children with essential life skills and values.”
The event also highlights the power of collaboration, showcasing how collective efforts can create a lasting impact. By uniting diverse stakeholders, we hope to inspire other partners to join us in this mission, amplifying the resources and support available to CRCH.
Reflecting on the event, Mymoena encapsulated its spirit by stating, “As we turn this soil, we’re doing much more than starting a garden. We’re planting seeds of hope, growth, and opportunity.” This event marks the beginning of a journey that will see the children flourish, with the garden serving as a cornerstone of their development.
Dr. Mohammed, chairperson of CRCH below, presented a certificate of continuous support to the Rotary Club of Waterfront as a token of appreciation for the strong relationship that has been cultivated over time.Below left Children fascinated by the site, with Piet Postema.
