Community initiative spreads Easter cheer to Thembisa children

Bana Ba Kgotso continues to go the extra mile in celebrating Easter, recognising that not all children are privileged to receive toys and gifts during this time of year.

To address this, the organisation canvases the community for donations and takes on various jobs, accepting payment in the form of boxes of Easter eggs.

These are then distributed to children over the Easter weekend. Their previous campaign was a great success, with 7 000 eggs handed out to children across Thembisa.

ALSO READ: Cyber Saloon launches Cyber Cares charity drive to support local communities

The initiative also includes organising games and activities, allowing children to experience the joy of Easter while learning about the significance of the holiday. Easter eggs remain the highlight of the celebrations.

According to Dennis Rasekgela, the goal is to ensure that the community feels the spirit of Easter.

“We always try to bring the tradition of Easter eggs to children in our community so that they can feel valued and joyful during this holiday.

“We go around offering services such as cleaning homes, washing cars and doing any work that requires payment. Instead of money, we ask for donations of Easter eggs.

“We then bring them back to our area, organise fun games such as ‘Find My Egg’, and create a space for children to enjoy themselves.

ALSO READ: Tembisa drug rehabilitation founder hosts Christmas charity drive in Madelakufa

“We also distribute eggs throughout the community. To maintain trust, we send pictures to those who assist us, as we rely heavily on donations to support these children,” said Rasekgela.

Many children in Thembisa do not have the opportunity to celebrate Easter due to various circumstances.

However, the organisation believes that small acts of kindness can make a meaningful difference, and they strive to ensure children feel cared for during the short holiday period.

“Last year was a great success. Many individuals and businesses responded to our call and donated generously.

“This resulted in a large number of boxes, totalling 7 000 Easter eggs, which we distributed to children in the community. We also prepared meals to share with them, as our role is to support both children and adults.

ALSO READ: Kempton Park hosts vibrant Heritage Month gospel concert for unity and charity

“For us, Easter is about spending time with those who support and rely on us daily, beyond just providing food parcels. We have been carrying out this initiative since the lockdown period,” he added.

Since then, Bana Ba Kgotso has used the Easter holiday to bring smiles to children and families. In addition to Easter eggs, the organisation also donates blankets, clothing and food to households in need.

“We have been collecting clothes and blankets since January, and we are pleased to say we have raised more than we did last year.

After Easter, we continue seeking donations for Youth Day, where we aim to assist unemployed youth and those struggling to support their children due to financial difficulties.

“Every season on our calendar is dedicated to serving the community. Whether it is taking on jobs or asking for donations, the work never stops, as it makes a meaningful difference in the end,” concluded Rasekgela.