Johannesburg north-east children get early Christmas from local church
NORWOOD – Children receive medals and party packs as part of a gesture of appreciation for their participation.
It was all fun and play at the Norwood Park on 1 December with children from various parts of the Johannesburg north-east areas enjoying a Christmas party by a local church.
Children from destitute families were treated to healthy food and took time to play games at the park situated along Grant Avenue.
The event was organised by the local St Giles Presbyterian Church and children as far as from Yeoville, Berea, Johannesburg CBD and Norwood all participated.
According to Venitta Masisi, owner of the local soccer team, Norwood Young Stars, this was a jovial moment for all the children.
Masisi said they had initially organised a mini soccer tournament on the day to celebrate the festive season and the church, in partnership with local businesses, came in to support.
She said about 200 children participated adding that the event was well supported.
“We had Steers as one of our supporters and they donated 50 burgers free of charge and the church bought 150 more to enable our children to eat,” said Masisi.
“It was a really beautiful day and our kids were also excited and entertained. We had four soccer teams who played against each other to get the audience even more excited.”
Children received medals and party packs as a gesture of appreciation for attending the event from the church, she added.
Norman Wallis, a representative from the church, said they are excited how this event turned out and they hope to build from this excitement.
Wallis said he was walking past the park when he noticed the children playing and approached Masisi who then told him about their struggles.
He said from there on as a church they decided to extend their helping hand and they have been doing so in the last three months.
“It is because there are no recreational activities in the area meaning there is nothing for the kids to do in the area.
“Last Saturday was just fun and all children loved it and were very excited with the treatment they received.”
This is an ongoing initiative and we would like to encourage the locals to support this initiative and volunteer their time just to come and witness what the children are doing there.
Details: Venitta Masisi 076 696 7228.
Were you part of the Christmas party at the Norwood Park? Tell us about your experience by posting in the North Eastern Tribune Facebook page.
