Provide WiFi for the local Rocklands school

Climbers, we need your help! The local primary school in Rocklands needs WiFi, a dining space, and a washing area for clothing and bedding. Let's step up!

Elizabethfontein Primary, situated 35km outside Clanwilliam, is a school with 249 children ages 6-12, the majority of which live in the surrounding farming district—the very areas in which we climb. In addition to classroom instruction, the school provides aftercare and supervisory service for 194 children in the hostel; these students board at the school from Sunday evening until Friday afternoon. The school does not charge tuition.

If you have visited Rocklands, you are likely already familiar with Elizabethfontein: each year, the school hosts an evening filled with delicious food and amazing performances from the children. For many of us, this cultural event is one of the highlights of any Rocklands trip.

The school's footprint, of course, is much bigger than one night. If you have stayed at De Pakhuys, or spent a rest day at the Hen House, or eaten dinner at Traveller's Rest, you have interacted with a family whose child attends Elizabethfontein. We have an opportunity to help support the education of those who make Rocklands so welcoming and special.

Our goal is to raise enough money to provide WiFi for the entire school for three years. Through other fundraising the school has already raised enough money to lease the necessary equipment. They do not have the funds, however, to pay the monthly fee of R5049 (approximately $275). Our total goal is $9900, enough to pay for three years of WiFi.

Any additional funds we raise beyond our goal will be used for other needs, including:

Many of us grew up in an environment where these basic needs were taken for granted. We now have an opportunity to provide these necessities for other children, and to give back to a community that is so important to climbers from all over the world.

A short message from Annatjie Dames, the principal of Elizabethfontein:

"Our motto of 'Reach for the stars' is visible daily, and forms the foundation on which Elizabethfontein Primary is built. Pupils are given the opportunity to reach their full potential, and excel in terms of academics, culture and sport. Our school values of: Love, Respect, Friendship, Kindness and Honesty form the basis in everything we do. We Belong, We Care, and We Serve.

Thank you for your kindness and generosity shown towards our school. It is truly appreciated."