Hoërskool Secunda matric learners Anina Joubert (18) and Juandri Fourie (18) walked and jogged in a fundraiser for the SAVF Child and Youth Care Centre in Secunda on December 6.

They began walking at 07:00 and ended at 19:00, covering 53km. Community members joined in support by walking with the girls and donating to the care centre.

The girls asked that the community make monetary donations to the SAVF account or donate toys and clothes. Some R17 500 was raised, and a trailer full of toys and clothes was handed to the centre.

Speaking to the Ridge Times, Juandri said, “In the middle of exams, we decided to dedicate a day when we run from house to house where people have pools, and take a swim in between.”

The girls then decided to do it for a good cause, not just for fun.

“It would be dumb to run for long hours and not do it for a good cause,” said Juandri.

A family member recommended the care centre to Juandri, which recently opened a Baby Basket. Unbeknownst to Juandri, Anina felt it in her heart when reading her Bible and praying: The same children’s home.

“We had friends and strangers come support us, and we are thankful for their support. Fifty-three kilometres on our young legs is not that bad, but these people ran and walked with us. The support was insane and puts into perspective how much people are willing to give,” said Junadri.

She said the people who could not give financially or run donated clothes and toys. The girls thanked every person and sponsor for their support.

Anina will study medicine at the University of Pretoria, and Juandri a Bachelor of Science in physiology and biochemistry in Bloemfontein.

The SAVF Child and Youth Care Centre’s Mari Louw said, “God is good. Thank you to the girls and the Secunda community for their support.”