By Buziwe Nocuze
Nomzamo Educare kids were handed early Christmas presents from the Pioneers of Change members, along with Gugulethu Football Legends.
After playing various games and enjoying the classic jumping castle, the kids were joined by other kids from the township before they got their presents.
Mncedisi Khatshwa, a representative from Nomzamo Educare, said the kids come from a disadvantaged background.
“Some parents even struggle to pay the school fees. That shows that we need to do something to help them during this time,” said Khatshwa.
“Seeing them playing and enjoying themselves before getting their presents was the proudest moment for us. Every child deserves to be loved and as community members, we need to come together to help where we see the need.”
With responsibility for over 100 kids, Nomzamo Educare plays a key role in the community.
Parent Nolungisa Mthalane said as unemployed parents they face major challenges during the holiday season. “I am grateful because I didn’t have money to buy my kids anything. The shoebox of goodies they received will help a lot,” said Mthalane.
“To some people it might look small, but to us it is huge.”
Another parent said it was the first time some kids had the opportunity to play on a jumping castle.
“The kids’ day was made. I’m sure that they will never forget it. You could see the happiness in their faces,” said the parent.
“The truth is, it is already a struggle just to put food on the table. We don’t have money to take our kids out. Having games here and the presents they received are more than enough.”
Tumelo Pudumo, one of the founders of the Pioneers of Change organisation, spoke passionately about their decision to unite the community.
“We ask people to bring a shoebox with specified items in them. While we call it a shoebox, inside it has items the kids need as well as stationery and toys,” said Pudumo.
Pictured above: Nomzamo Educare kids, joined by their peers from Gugulethu township in Cape Town, savour the joy of early Christmas presents courtesy of the Pioneers of Change.
Image source: Buziwe Nocuze
