Lighthouse Community Centre youth give back to the community for June 16
The youth wanted to do something different to commemorate the holiday.
Lighthouse Community Centre youth from Selcourt gave back to Tholakele Centre of Hope in Kwa-Thema on June 16.
The group, under the supervision of husband-and-wife duo Dr Gugulethu and Siphiwe Xaba, visited the home to interact with the children and hand over gifts.
The youth served those who live and work at the centre a delicious breakfast and later made lunch for the children.
“The children received warm love, smiles, a sense of care and a Godly embrace,” says Lighthouse Community Centre spokesperson Bafana Tshabalala.
The day was not without its merits, because the youth said they learnt many lessons, especially patience, as they spent time with the children.
“It has also been a joy to see how the children are drawn to others and how affectionate they are, especially during playtime.
“It was such a cultural experience. We learnt a lot from the home’s caregiver, Khabo Mkhwanazi,” added Bafana.
The group had fun, even though the harsh realities of those less fortunate provided a sobering moment.
“We enjoyed watching and learning how Khabo plays with and cares for the children. It is a joy to see how respectful and responsible these kids are,” he says.
“We loved playing with the children and teaching them new games such as 30 Seconds, Monopoly and indigenous games,“ said one member of Lighthouse Community Centre.
“It was great working alongside the children, and their social worker, Nosisa Sotsaka, discussing the centre and other projects. Listening and sharing stories was inspiring, and I made great friends.”
ALSO CHECK: School online admissions application closing date extended
Pastor Lerato Mthembu from Christian Community Changers explained that Tholakele Centre of Hope, founded by senior pastor Tholakele Matilda Tshabalala at Christian Community Changers, was established around 2004.
The biggest lesson the youth say they learnt is the connections people build despite their backgrounds.
“We know now that despite coming from very different backgrounds, we have things in common, such as God and the bond of friendship, laughter and fun. We have established great friendships, as a group and individually.
“We would like to express our gratitude to Shield Chemicals, a company that partnered with Lighthouse
Community Centre, by donating personal care products, which we packaged as gift hampers for the children.
“We are also thankful to the SPAR Group, one of our sponsors, who provided a monetary donation towards Tholakele Centre of Hope,” he concluded.
