Father Ashe Steenbok, from the school’s chapel, has launched a clothing drive encouraging parents and pupils to donate clothes their children have outgrown, giving these items a second life in the community. The initiative forms part of the school’s termly outreaches.

These have previously included food drives and support for organisations caring for animals. This time, the focus is on children experiencing homelessness.

The chapel has partnered with the Tweetoringkerk, which Father Ashe says provides meals to approximately 250 homeless people twice daily. The clothing collected will go to children among those receiving support through the church.

The idea began when an educator mentioned clearing out her child’s cupboard. Father Ashe says the suggestion inspired conversations with his wife and parents, who soon discovered how many clothes their children no longer needed.

He hopes the initiative will encourage families to make donating a regular habit, while teaching children to recognise that not everyone has the same opportunities or access to necessities.

“We task the boys not to be the main character in this world,” Father Ashe says, explaining that privilege comes with a responsibility to share with others.

Learner Caylim van Tonder, Jannie Louw from the church and Father Ashe Steenbok with food delivered to Tweetoringkerk. Photo supplied

The school’s motto, Let There Be Light, also reflects the thinking behind the drive. Drawing on Matthew 5, Father Ashe says the light and love people receive should be shared through good deeds that benefit others.

While the initiative is organised through the school, Father Ashe hopes the wider Bloemfontein community will join in, helping make the December holidays a little brighter for children in need of support.

Donations can be dropped off at St Andrew’s School, either at the chapel, the school office or with the security guard during morning drop-off. Father Ashe initially planned to deliver the clothing on 2 November, but says the deadline could be extended if community interest grows.

He has also suggested making the official handover on 24 November, his 50th birthday, turning a personal milestone into an opportunity to give back.

For Father Ashe, the initiative is about more than clearing cupboards. It is an opportunity to put compassion into practice, reminding the boys that their place in the community comes with a responsibility to help others.

OFM News/Ditebogo Molefi cvs

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