We organized an event for 300 children in Elsiesrivier, Cape Town, and brought along extra toys and sweets, just in case. In the end, there was enough for the almost 450 children who showed up – praise God! Each child got apples, a toy, a goodie bag of sweeties, and a kids Activated magazine with stories and activities. We also showed a Gospel video and Angela shared the story of Christmas with all the children – the whole group then accepting Jesus as their personal Saviour! What a happy day!
For the children who attend our weekly Sunday School at this informal settlement, elements of Christmas that we take for granted – such as snacks and gifts – are often not part of their experience. That’s why we had such a good time giving each of them goodie bags with tasty treats, a Christmas colouring page, and a toy for each one!
As we set out tables-full of food, treats, and toys- the men, women, and children of the Klipheuwel informal settlement listened to us explain the reason for our visit. ” It’s Christmas time, Jesus’ Birthday, and He is the only One Who gave the gift of Himself. He is Love personified.” Wonderfully, 250 of those gathered then accepted Jesus as their Forever Friend and Saviour! After the prayer we proceeded to fill their bags with food items and treats for Christmas, as well as giving a special toy to each child. There were mealies and meat, apples, potatoes, onions, bread, and ice lollies, goodie bags, Gospel material, cuddles and board games and dolls and cars and more and more!!!
We were invited to a mental health facility to minister to and entertain the patients. They loved the balloons and interaction, and we are so grateful to have been there with them, reminding them that Jesus cares about each one of us, whatever our state or circumstances.
For the many (predominantly white and coloured) families recently evicted from their long term farm home, Christmas might not have come at all if not for this special event. Each parcel contained fresh food – apples, mealies, bread, potatoes, and chicken – as well as tins of tuna, beans, and veg, soup mix, pasta, juice and cookies. Then we added candles and a goodie bag of treats for all an an inspirational Activated magazine.
And what is Christmas without presents? There were knitted teddies for the little ones and board games for the older children.
For this event, each child received their own soft toy to enjoy, we brought along some bubble blowing bottles to entertain the kids! So much laughter and many smiles, with each child of Sive Nathi getting something they liked!
Also, for the special men and women who care for the children, a hamper full of Christmas treats and presents!
The children at this underprivileged creche are so precious. They often come from troubled families, and need a lot of love and encouragement in the right direction. In addition to helping them with foodstuffs and educational materials during the year, we like to do something special for Christmas. Each child got their own present – and oh what joy as they looked them over and began playing with them; each enjoying what they received without fighting or jealousy! We also played games with them, which was so much fun, and the teachers got their own “thank you” hamper for the faithful care they give, day in and day out.
The excitement is building! We’re thrilled to be able to sort, pack, and wrap the first 1000 goodie bags, as well as hundreds of toys, and food/gift parcels for adults. We’re SO grateful for all the support we’ve received this far to make these Christmas projects happen! Looking forward to keeping you updated as we go along!
