VEREENIGING – For many children in Leeuhof, Christmas is not always a time of gifts, festive meals, or celebration. But thanks to Anne-Marie Slabbert and the Mekayla Memorial NPC, hundreds of children once again experienced a day filled with joy during the annual Mekayla Memorial Christmas Street Party.

The event was held on December 21 at the Leeuhof Community Hall and was attended by approximately 500 children from the area. The party featured jumping castles, water slides, refreshments, gifts, and a visit from Santa and his elves.

Slabbert launched the initiative after the tragic death of her daughter, Mekayla, turning her personal loss into a lasting act of community upliftment. What began as the distribution of donated gifts has since grown into an annual Christmas celebration, held every year since December 2013.

“The party was started to bring joy, hope, and Christmas love to children in the community, while also honouring Mekayla’s memory,” Slabbert said.

The initiative is supported by volunteers, donors, local businesses, and community members. Among the sponsors were Toy Run Vanderbijlpark, Eskom Lethabo Power Station, Babcock, Selepe Bearings, Lynca Meats, AGS Duncanville Kinderbediening, Trirad, Olympic Bottle Store, Phakamisani Services, the Gary Mann Foundation, Tasty Twist, Fruit & Veg, and Councillor Prudence.

Earlier this month, the organisation also hosted a Christmas meal for approximately 100 elderly residents in Leeuhof.

Community members praised the initiative, with one resident describing it as “a truly awesome day” that brought joy not only to children, but to families across the neighbourhood.