Village of Hope, led by Tumie Masolane and NPO team members Ntsoaki Sindane and Tlhokomelo Masolane, partnered with Brakpan SAPS Sector 1 and 3 managers to host a Christmas party for underprivileged children.

The party, which was the brainchild of the local non-profit organisation, was held at the Brakpan Stadium on December 10.

According to Tumie, the event aimed to give children from informal settlements and other underprivileged communities a festive feeling of love and care.

Stakeholders in attendance included the EMPD Social Crime Prevention Unit, the City of Ekurhuleni Women Directorate, the Far East Rand Hospital Crisis Centre, Kingsway Clinic, Uyasiphumelelisa NPO, and the Department of Social Development.

Children from the Mgongo and Mkhancwa informal settlements, as well as children from Brakpan North, Anzac, Brenthurst, the Brakpan CBD and Tsakani, were in attendance.

The event was themed denim and white. Food, refreshments, and party packs were provided to each child. Teenagers also received toiletry gift packs.

The local youth foundation, Bold and Brave, entertained the children with music and games, where small prizes were up for grabs. The day’s programme was directed by Nonhlanhla Mazibuko from Tsakani, and Mpho Mogapi from the EMPD Social Crime Prevention Unit.

The opening prayer was conducted by community leader Smangaliso Mejoane, and Sebenzile Mbedla gave the children a message of hope and love for the festive period.

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Brakpan SAPS Sector 1 manager and communications officer Constable Audrey Buthelezi spoke to the children about good behaviour during the festive period, and celebrated their school achievements.

She encouraged those who did not pass to never give up. Gratitude was extended to all sponsors, including Ndabezitha Buses in Tsakani for transporting the children, Harcourts Real Estate, Pick n Pay Sherwood Gardens, Pick n Pay Springs Mall, VC SUPERSPAR, Perry’s Plus Dalview, Jansen’s Butchery, the Mini Cooper Crew, Loved Ones Church, Louwrens Coetzer Attorneys, CBI Attorneys, Xolani Jwaga, and Aminatah Mthembu.

Appreciation was also expressed to the CPF members who accompanied the children from different areas, as well as for ensuring visibility around the stadium, making sure no child exited the gates and that no criminal activities were reported.

Village of Hope also thanked Brakpan police, the EMPD Social Crime Prevention Unit, and the Bold and Brave Youth Foundation for their participation in making the day a success. Tumie added that the children were happy, and that the NPO and stakeholders definitely achieved their goal.