Early Christmas treat for Fairleigh children

"It is all about how we overcome these battles and find a way to spread joy..."

Children celebrate their early Christmas presents.

Saturday (December 14) saw smiles and gratitude from the children of Fairleigh, where a gift drive was held to uplift the community and children.

“This was our first-ever gift drive, and in a good turn of events and by the grace of God, many individuals came through to support us,” said Nichole Jasmin, one of the founding members of the gift drive.

Children in Fairleigh were treated to early Christmas present this past Saturday.

The aim of the day was to ensure the children living in Fairleigh and neighbouring areas would also have a merry Christmas.

“As I run my own creche during the day, I was inspired by the idea of giving back to the community, especially for the underprivileged children. This time of the year can always be seen as difficult in our community, but at the end of the day it is all about how we overcome these battles and find a way to spread joy,” added Jasmin.

One of the main sponsors of the event was the charity organisation, Rainbow Angels. The Newcastle Advertiser spoke to a few members of the organisation to find out exactly what it took to ensure success in the day’s proceedings.

“Our vision and mission is to support registered organisations in Newcastle and surrounding areas, in aiding abandoned and abused individuals and orphans. We intend to do it with the greatest love care and concern for the children in our community,” said member of Rainbow Angels, Tanuja Lakhan.

Lillian Gajoo of SANCA (The South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence) also attended the festive drive, providing the gift of knowledge to the young children in the community:

“We need to teach our young ones the seriousness of drug and alcohol abuse, especially at this time of the year. Be careful of the dangers and let us keep the future generations of Newcastle safe, as prevention is better than cure.”