Wine retailer helps build SA children’s centre

Virgin Wines has announced plans to help build an after-care facility for children in South Africa as part of the largest fairtrade wine projects in the world.

Andrew Baker, Wine Buyer, Virgin Wines at the Fairhills Project

The UK wine retailer has already contributed £17,000 to the Fairhills fair trade Project since 2008, and has now pledged to help build an after-care facility for children at a primary school in South Africa from funds generated from the sale of its fair trade wines.

The facility will give children a safe place to go after school to receive help with their homework from trained teachers, as well as extra classes in subjects such as mathematics, science and computer literacy.

The children will also be able to enjoy a meal and take part in a range of extra-curricular activities.

Jay Wright, CEO of Virgin Wines, said: “We’re humbled to be part of such a fantastic project such as Fairhills, which works tirelessly to improve the quality of life for its workers and their respective families. We’re extremely proud that since 2008 our contributions have helped to fund a computer centre and library for children and this next stage will see another school benefit from an after-care facility to ensure the continued educational development of the children. We hope our customers will continue to support us in this great initiative and therefore support communities in South Africa.”

The Fairhills Project was set up in 2005 as a joint venture between Du Toitskloof Wine Cellar and the wine exporter, Origin Wine, in the Breedekloof region of South Africa.

Virgin Wines donates money to the project though sales of its fair trade wines named Usizo (“assistance” in Zulu), which includes a Shiraz, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinotage and Colombard Sauvignon Blanc, each priced at £8.49.

Click here for more information on the project.

Children at Lorraine Primary School with Headmistress