Alpine Primary celebrates grand opening of The Andrew Williams Kitchen and Dining Hall
From left are the late acting principal, Andrew William, of Alpine Primary's family Cathlin Williams, Abigail Williams, Mark Williams and in front are Stephen Williams, Leslie Pangemanan, founder of Run4Schools, Patricia Williams and Andre' Williams.
Image: Marsha Bothma
Alpine Primary School celebrated the grand opening of The Andrew Williams Kitchen and Dining Hall, a project donated by the Run4Schools NGO.
Staff, family, friends, and community members attended the celebrations on Thursday, October 16, at Alpine Primary School.
The late Mr Williams joined Alpine in 1988 as a deputy principal and then acting principal.
Leslie Pangemanan, founder of Run4Schools, inside the new kitchen.
Image: Marsha Bothma
He was deeply involved in feeding pupils, helping in the kitchen, and personally supporting the children, ensuring they were fed before lessons, said Patricia Williams, his wife.
His hands-on approach reached beyond the school, distributing soup in Beacon Valley during winter and serving as a peacemaker in the community amid crime and gang conflicts, she said.
Alpine principal Natasha Pather said, “It was sad to see how our children were eating while sitting on the ground or in corridors, carrying their plates when it rained. Many said it was their only home-cooked meal.”
“That dream has finally been fulfilled. We can’t educate a child on an empty stomach. With this kitchen, we can cook extra food to feed over 400 pupils, porridge, and a cooked meal. Education and nutrition go hand in hand,” she said.
Natasha Pather, Alpine principal, and Leslie Pangemanan, founder of Run4Schools, cutting the ribbon open to the kitchen.
Image: Marsha Bothma
Founder of Run4Schools, Leslie Pangemanan, said: “I have maintained a relationship with Alpine and other schools for over 21 years to support and make a difference. We want to help those in need, whether through music, dance, or sports. I am really excited for this opportunity for the kids.”
Ms Williams said Mr Williams was a father figure in the community. "Kids would come to our home to have something to eat. This dining hall restores dignity and belonging to our pupils. We are grateful to Leslie and all who made this possible.”
From left are Andre' Williams, Mark Williams, Abigail Williams, Stephen Williams, Cathlin Williams and Patricia Williams cutting the ribbon to open the dining hall.
Image: Marsha Bothma
The late Mr Williams’ son, Stephen Williams said, “My dad always had the passion of feeding kids. We would assist him with five pots of soup at a time. We are humbled to see his vision come to life.”
His daughter, Cathlin Williams, an alumnus of Alpine and board member of Run4Schools, said: “I am a product of this foundation. This honours my father’s dream and passion. When a child is fed, they are fed for life. I hope this continues for generations.”
Eldest son Mark Williams said, “Thank you to everyone who went all out. We are grateful to see his legacy carried forward.”