The Benoni Child Welfare is 100 years old this year.
Its role and way forward in the next 100 years is strengthening families, protecting children and helping equip them to navigate life in the new world of technology.
This is according to director Vanessa Carelse as she reflected on their successes at their birthday celebrations on Heritage Day (September 24).
“Organisations like ours need to keep our eyes on children; to ensure they are protected. Our world isn’t getting safer. We need organisations like ours that have stood the test of time and have the passion for children’s safety and strengthening families.”
She emphasised the importance of a strong family unit, saying such family bonds keep children from harm and mischief.
“Strong family support systems are lacking in our country. Our role and way forward is not only protecting children but also equipping them to navigate life in the new world of technology, which is essential because there are many dangers, such as trafficking, on the internet.”
Benoni Child Welfare, founded in 1924, celebrated its milestone centenary with a family fun day on the Hoërskool Brandwag rugby fields.
The children under the care of the facility entertained the attendees with cultural dancing while the Benoni High Pipe Band wowed them with their soothing sounds.
The event was attended by various organisations, including the Benoni Heritage Vehicle and Engine Club, which displayed a collection of vintage cars. Kia and Audi East Rand also supported the event.
Family connection
The anniversary celebration saw parents enjoying various games, including face painting, with their children. This, according to Carelse, was to help families reconnect since screen time and cellphone games have taken over children’s lives.
“We don’t play anymore. One of the things children need to grow, and it’s also therapeutic, is play. Televisions, tablets and phones have taken the place of play. Our aim was for parents and their children to connect and build relationships through play.”
Entrepreneurship
The event also included stalls manned by various care facilities and others from the community, selling toys, scones and ice cream, which formed part of the NPO’s entrepreneurial initiative to develop and help them think outside the box.
“Children, specifically those that come from care facilities, need to think out of the box.
“When they leave us, they may not have other support systems or a family structure to support them,” Carelse said.
“It’s important that they think about what they can do to generate income and empower themselves.”
Also Read: Support the Benoni Child Welfare charity shop
Also Read: Get to know Benoni Child Welfare services
