Children and parents came together for a day of colour, fun, and community spirit when Margaret Maltman Crèche in Kwa-Thema hosted its Colour Fun Walk on October 17 to raise funds to improve the centre and provide better facilities for its young learners.

The event brought families together for a worthy cause, as the crèche hopes to raise enough money to address some of its most pressing needs, including painting the centre, securing a mobile classroom for Grade R learners and buying blankets and sleeping sponges for the children.

The crèche’s co-ordinator, Ntombi Matiele, told the African Reporter that the event mattered because the centre relies on community support and fundraising to meet its needs.

She said that as a registered NPO, they depend on events like this to raise funds to maintain the centre. Although turnout was lower than expected, the crèche was grateful to everyone who helped make the day possible.

“We humbly plead with our parents and the community to please support us in such events in the future. Your support is vital to the growth and upkeep of our centre,” said Matiele.

Matiele shared that the crèche event was not only about raising funds but also about encouraging the community to take an active role in supporting the children and the centre they attend.

Local organisations and businesses also supported the event, helping ensure the day ran smoothly. Matiele thanked the EMPD for helping to keep the children and parents safe throughout the walk.

The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) team also attended the event to educate parents about the importance of donating blood and to show them how blood donation can save lives.

Local business JDI Anstreicher contributed fruit, water, ice and soft drinks, while its staff members assisted throughout the day.

Matiele thanked those who offered their time and resources to support the initiative.

“Your support made a real difference and we truly appreciate it,” she said.

She hopes that more parents and community members will participate in future fundraising activities to help improve conditions for the children.

The centre is also appealing to businesses and individuals who can help with donations of paint, blankets, and sleeping sponges. Assistance towards securing a mobile classroom for Grade R learners would also be welcomed.

“We further appeal to companies and individuals who can assist us with paint, sponge mattresses, and blankets for the children to come forward kindly. Any assistance will be highly appreciated,” said Matiele.

Matiele thanked everyone who participated, donated, or assisted with the event and appealed for continued support as the crèche works to create a better environment for its learners.