Christmas in July helps needy kids

Sponsors from Randfontein in conjunction with the Women’s Network of the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Tarlton and the Social Crime Prevention Unit assisted 522 pupils from Tarlton Intermediate School in having a true Christmas in July.

The event was held at the Nelson Mandela Community Hall in Tarlton over the weekend. A total of 522 needy pupils were invited to join the event.

They are currently on a nutrition project where they receive their meals at school. Unfortunately this stops over the holidays and leaves these children hungry.

Martie Mans, project leader of the Christmas in July event organised sponsors from Randfontein, Krugersdorp and Tarlton to join.

Ds Johan van der Merwe of the Lewende Nuwe Generasie Kerk also came aboard and even helped handing out the food. They worked hard at gathering all the food, presents and school bags.

The Chinese Embassy also played a great part in the event as they form part of the Chinese Overseas Business and Commerce Federation in Gauteng. They supplied each child with a schoolbag, beanie and several other important items. They handed over these gift bags to overjoyed children and afterwards proudly posed together holding up there red flag.

The children each had a hearty meal, got cold drinks, cake and sweet treats.

Gontso Kalamane, 13, from Tarlton Intermediate School said, “I am enjoying Christmas in July. The food is the best and I am so happy about my gifts.”

The pupils also received Bullbrand products, fresh vegetables and canned food to take home for the holidays. This would make feeding them during the holidays so much easier on their parents. The pupils were also treated by a “Mammaclause” and festive music filled the hall.

According to Lieutenant Colonel Bonny Molefi from the Tarlton Police, “I am so excited, I was stressed and woke up very early this morning. I even helped the ladies in the kitchen. I did not want to disappoint the children and wanted to show them that we know what Christmas is really about.”

Mans added emotionally, “I just wanted to see the children smile.”

All the food was prepared and served by the Women’s Network of Tarlton SAPS.

The following sponsors were thanked for their great contributions and donations.

Hermes; the Chinese Embassy; West Rand Pack; Ben Morgenrood Motors; Randgate Spar; Nola; Sungate Farms; Westgate Meat Market; Bullbrand; Stan Miley; Clint Matthews; Lorette Steenkamp; Pinnochio Farms; Rugani Farms and Red Oak; Lewende Nuwe Generasie Kerk; Women’s Network of Tarlton SAPS; Tarlton police and everybody else that was involved.