Gift of the Givers give back in Umasizakhe

Video

KAROO NEWS AND VIDEO - In celebration of Mandela Day, Gift of the Givers reached out to the Khanyisa Day Care Centre in Umasizakhe on 17 July, a day before the late Nelson Mandela's birthday.

According to Gift of the Givers' Eastern Cape Coordinator, Corene Conradie, the organisation started reaching out to learners of the centre by mid-lockdown.

"We saw the effect that unemployment, due to the extended lockdown, had on families, and many children weren't receiving their daily meals at school anymore." These meals are especially important for the children of the centre with disabilities, who need to take medication with meals.

Despite the various challenges that they face, staff and around 30 learners of the centre and Umasizakhe were in high spirits on Friday, kicking the celebrations off with by singing the national anthem.

Each child was given a blanket, donated by the Foschini Group, a reusable mask and a care package. All those present also enjoyed a warm meal and a piece of the South African flag-themed cake.

"You are strong and beautiful, and this too shall pass," Conradie told the children. "You are our future and your future is bright."

Principal Bukelwa Booysen said it was an honour to welcome Gift of the Givers, and the centre is grateful for their continuous support. "Thank you also to Tata Madiba for the love and legacy he left us."

Booysen advises parents to love and protect their children during this challenging time. "Do not grow tired of them. And please follow the Covid-19 rules. Think of the children and support them."

Watch a video below.

Principal of Khanyisa Day Care Centre (far left) and Gift of the Givers' Eastern Cape Coordinator, Corene Conradie (far rigt) with staff, learners and volunteers during a Mandela Day outreach. Photo: Paula-Ann Smit