Being charitable and helping people less fortunate has always been something I grew up doing. I was taught to collect my used clothing, especially after getting new outfits, and distribute it to different charities throughout the year.
On Tuesday 13 December, 2011, a close friend of mine sent me a text message about doing something different on our Day of Reconciliation holiday (16 December), instead of the usual partying. We decided on giving our 67 minutes, and spending time with kids less fortunate than us at a charity close to where we live.
A quick google search and we found Siyazigabisa Home of Hope for children and youth in Thembisa.
Siyazigabisa Home of Hope is headed by Gab’sile Khoza, and aims to provide temporary shelter to women and children from all backgrounds. The home serves as a place of safety for victims of domestic violence, women and children with HIV/Aids and HIV/Aids orphans. The home currently houses 20 children ranging from babies to teenagers.
We quickly sent emails and text messages to our group of friends and colleagues, and the response was great. Some offered their time, others made donations of money and vouchers – all towards a good cause. Flow project manager Roshni Nana contributed towards purchasing essentials for the home. Our aim was to deliver staple food, snacks, clothes and toys, and by Thursday evening everything was collected, packed into cars and ready to go.
On the day, we received a warm welcome from Gab’sile and some of the kids showed us around their home. This was followed by snack time and some fun and games.
One of the boys who stays at the home shows us his musical talent
The children take part in playing games and assembling puzzles we brought for them
Our timing was great, as the kids were due for a snack. We got straight to work, creating and handing each child a snack pack
Alutha (a friend who volunteered) helps the kids with a puzzle
Happiness all round as a group of boys proudly show-off their finished puzzle
Reba, another volunteer, gets glammed-up and spends time with some of the teen girls
Overall, it was a holiday well spent. Visit the Mandela Day website and learn more about how you can put aside some time and make a change in the world.