24 Nov Rheenendal Outreach

Knysna Community and Leaders Unite to Uplift Rheenendal Learners with Essential Winter Gear and Focus on Education’s Future

The Grade R pupils of Rheenendal Primary were paid a visit by Deputy Mayor Morton Gericke, Daniel Pompies of Rheenendal Community Projects, Vicky Arends of The Greater Knysna Business Chamber and Captain Kleinpie of SAPS.

The Greater Knysna community demonstrated a powerful commitment to its youngest learners yesterday, August 7, 2025, as various stakeholders gathered at Rheenendal Primary School to deliver much-needed winter shoes and socks to Grade R learners and emphasize the crucial role of education for Knysna’s future.

The initiative, spearheaded by the Greater Knysna Business Chamber (GKBC), saw the distribution of 30 pairs of winter shoes and 60 pairs of socks to young students, ensuring they remain warm and comfortable during the colder months. Vicky Arends, head of GKBC’s KESH project (Knysna Education and Skills Hub), along with Beverley Pothier and Toni van der Westhuizen, represented the Chamber. Arends underscored the direct link between warmth and effective learning, stating, “a warm learner is able to focus on what they are learning when they are comfortable far better than they would when not distracted by the cold“. She also highlighted the profound importance of a child feeling and knowing that they are loved. The GKBC extended its gratitude to Yandi from Ackermans at Garden Route Mall for their assistance in securing the footwear and hosiery.

The event saw a collaborative effort from various community leaders and representatives:

• Morton Gericke, the Deputy Mayor of Knysna municipality, was in attendance and delivered an uplifting speech to the community, stressing the importance of education for the future of Knysna.
• Daniel Pompies represented a vital council of stakeholders, reinforcing the collective community support for the school.  With strength and courage we can face the obstacles together.
• Warrant Officer Petrus Kapp from Knysna SAPS also contributed with an engaging speech about community involvement and the significance of taking care of each other.

The school community was well-represented, with Mnr Payler, the principal of Rheenendal Primary School, welcoming the delegates. Also present were Linda Michaels from the school governing body, and Grade R teachers Karen Gezza and Lucinda Booysen, all united in their dedication to the children’s well-being and education.

This heartening event showcased the strong community spirit in Knysna, demonstrating a shared vision for a future where every child has the support and resources needed to thrive academically and feel valued.