Within 20 minutes of putting out an appeal to the residents of Ward 27, Christmas gifts for every child currently living in the care of five of the city’s Child and Youth Care Centres (CYCCs) were pledged.

Currently in its third year, the community’s ongoing commitment to the annual festive drive has ensured that 61 children, as well as the dedicated house-parents at Airfield House (Endeo), Greater Benoni Child and Family Welfare, Abraham Kriel Children’s Home, House Thandi, and House Charis, will each wake up to a personalised gift on Christmas morning.

“We are blown away by the community’s huge outpouring of love and care,” said Joseph.

“Donors were given the option to select a child and, based on their gender, age, clothing size, and interests, create a well-thought-out gift for them. This year we also included the house parents, in an effort to show our appreciation for their dedication in ensuring the safety of the children in their care.”

Excitedly watching as the gifts were being unpacked, Luzette Majiek, house-mother at Airfield House (Endeo), smiled from ear to ear, saying that the beautiful gifts are more than their contents.

“I hope the donors realise that they are not only providing a child with a present, they are acknowledging their existence and showing them that beyond the confines of these walls there is an entire community that cares deeply about their well-being,” she said.

“These seemingly small gestures of love have a profound impact on them and reaffirm their worthiness in this world.”

Director of the Greater Benoni Child and Family Welfare, Vanessa Carlse, expressed her gratitude to Joseph as well as the larger community.

“Times are tough, but despite this, members of our community did not hesitate to contribute to our children’s happiness,” said Carlse.

“This is a testament to a community spirit where neighbours care about one another. Thank you for showing our children the true meaning of Christmas.”

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