Friends in Ireland were approached by the managing Committee of St. Anthony’s community centre, in Kokstad, in late 2006. Friends in Ireland completely refurbished the existing building, an old tennis clubhouse structure; toilet and ablution facilities, a fitted kitchen, a playground and garden, within the St. Anthony’s complex; this became the Playroom. St. Anthony’s is located on Murray St. an extremely deprived part of Kokstad in the Twist Valley location. Many of the people living here come from disadvantaged backgrounds, with little sign of hope. The under-funded and ill-equipped facility was struggling to service this densely populated urban community.
Friends in Ireland construction work was completed in mid-2007 and the clubhouse was re-named St. Theresa’s playroom. It is run with the assistance of three local volunteers who supervise and teach the 35 tots who access the facility. In mid-2008 Friends in Ireland undertook to begin a nutritional programme at the playroom, and now also supplies a healthy breakfast to 30 primary school going vulnerable children five days a week. |
