To this aim, GreenPan has partnered with social enterprise Food and Trees for Africa (FTFA) and donated a tree for every item sold during the month of August. This has amounted to 372 trees that will be planted through FTFA’s Trees for All programme.

The first 20 trees will be planted at Vuyani Primary School in Gugulethu, Western Cape, This school is in an area where drug abuse, teenage pregnancy, violence and alcoholism are rife. For people living in poverty, everyday challenges can seem overwhelming. Crowding, noise, and danger can all contribute to chronic mental fatigue – leaving people less able to cope with major life issues. It’s a common problem for many people living in low-income urban areas, but there is hope.

A scientific study by the University of Illinois at Urbana campaign has demonstrated that green views and access to green spaces in urban areas may, in fact, help restore attention and relieve the everyday pressures of living in poverty. By making life’s demands more manageable, natural settings can actually help residents cope with the many stresses associated with poverty. Green spaces also contribute to a healthier environment and foster a sense of community, making them particularly valuable in poor neighbourhoods. For all of their social benefits, there is a great need to recognize the value of green spaces in cultivating healthier communities. GreenPan and FTFA are working together towards this and to improve the quality of life for the people of Gugulethu through the planting of these trees.

There is a lively sense of community in Gugulethu, and this is evident at the school. Parents are very involved in the school looking after it over weekends and often volunteering when called to assist. The school has a well kept garden and takes pride in making sure the school is aesthetically pleasing. The school has 761 learners of which 20 are orphaned. Said the Principal Mahlubi Ngqukuvana, “We are very excited to be blessed with trees from GreenPan that will not only bless the school by making it a greener prettier place, but will provide many benefits for the community and the country.”

The trees will be planted around the soccer field so when the school hosts matches the spectators have shade. These trees will also act as a sound barrier against the noise from the streets.

To attend the event at 09:00 at Vuyani Primary School, NY 58 Gugulethu, Southern Cape, or for more information, contact Mary-Ann Fairall on 011 656 9802/3 or email [email protected].