What began as a ladies-only gathering has now become one of the De Freitas Foundation’s (DFF) most anticipated annual events, with the Christmas in July breakfast drawing record numbers when it was held on July 25 at the Mundo Português restaurant in Primrose.

For the second year running, men were invited to join the celebration. In previous years the event was for women only, but after calls to “open up” the breakfast to both men and women the call was answered and the men and women showed up in their numbers.

The tradition behind Christmas in July is simple: each guest brings a wrapped gift.

This year more than 200 gifts were donated, including toiletries, towelettes and shampoos-items the foundation has identified as critical for those in need.

“Over the years the DFF found that after food and clothes, items such as toiletries were most lacking by the destitute. This is how the Christmas in July breakfast event was born,” said Jeanette de Freitas, DFF board member and the brainchild behind the initiative.

All donated items will be distributed to destitute individuals and families supported by the foundation across Gauteng.

Beyond the giving, the breakfast was also a celebration.

Guests enjoyed music, laughter and raffle prizes, creating a morning of great fun with purpose.
Jeanette de Freitas expressed her gratitude to all who attended.

“I am most grateful for the ladies and gentlemen who attended the breakfast as this event assists in the work of the DFF,” she said.

DFF Board member Manny de Freitas served as Master of Ceremonies for the event.

Special thanks were also given to Rosária de Freitas, DFF board member, and Lourdes dos Santos, a friend and volunteer of the DFF, for their behind-the-scenes work in organizing the breakfast.

With momentum building, the foundation is already looking ahead.

The next main DFF event will take place on October 11, when the organisation will host its annual lunch-the main fundraiser for the De Freitas Foundation.