The sky is the limit for Growing Champions recipients

Growing Champions, founded by Samantha Toweel-Moore in Northcliff, is the lifeline so many children who are ‘born into danger’ need to change the trajectory of their lives. A wide variety of interventions through education, sport and other development activities for children born into poverty, gangs, addiction, abuse and a host of other hurdles.

The running costs are exorbitant as they are currently helping 150 children, some of whom need housing support, schooling, feeding, medical and other support expenses.

The Patriots, Northside Charter motorbike club, held a fun day for the children which doubled as a fundraiser.

Linden-based president of the Patriots Northside James Starkey said, “The children that are helped by Growing Champions stand very little chance of growing up to lead a normal life when one looks into their backgrounds and problems they face. It takes a village to raise a child but Samantha is one woman raising a village.”

There is so much help they need. “Samantha is not just feeding and clothing them, she is raising incredible young men and women who give back what they received to help others who were in their situation. It is an incredible programme that needs to be supported by anyone who is able to offer anything to help.”

He says some of the people who had no alternative but to grow up and become gangsters are now educated, young professionals giving back to help make the world a better place. “It is incredible and fills you with hope and joy to witness.

“A special mention to Jason van Heerden who helped with the venue and Capital Air who gave us a huge discount on the helicopter which the kids absolutely loved.”

“Funds raised helped to get two cars back on the road that Growing Champions desperately needed and for a few other things to keep them going for a bit, but their financial status is dire.

“Growing Champions is our cause of choice and we hope to inspire others to assist them too.”

Toweel-Moore said, “Days like this are just magic and everyone left feeling upbeat and inspired, both the children and all of us. We truly cannot thank the Patriots enough.

“The magic happens when people connect with others they might not otherwise have met but do in our community centre or through days like today.”

When asked what their greatest need was, she said, “We need everything, unfortunately.”
She said the best way for people to help is to call or visit and find a way that resonates with the donor too as that is when synergy and relationships are built.

Visit www.growingchamps.co.za to learn more.

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