Auxiliary handle attachment for a cleaning sponge and the combined assembly

A cleaning implement having a sponge and an assembly for engaging and manipulating the sponge. The assembly includes a gripper head having a receptacle area that is defined within a peripheral wall. Hook elements are provided that laterally extend into the receptacle area from the peripheral wall. A handle extends from the gripper head. The handle may be selectively detachable from the gripper head. A sponge is provided, wherein a segment of the sponge is deformed into the receptacle area. The deformed section of the sponge is hooked by the hook elements in the receptacle area. This mechanically interconnects the sponge with the gripper head.