The South Coast residents are asked to contribute to the Christmas Blessing Tree drive, to put smiles on the faces of children from unfortunate families by arranging for them to receive a Christmas gift.
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John Matney of the Faith Baptist Church in Winklespruit said they have partnered with various non-profit organisations. He said Christmas Blessing Tree started in 2020, during lockdown, when many families were under financial strain and could not afford Christmas gifts for their children or even a proper Christmas meal.
“I want to make sure that children in the area have a Christmas to remember, and the families have a nice meal. Times are tough, and we want to make a difference,” he said.
Christmas trees are placed at various venues, and each tree will have cards with the name of a child on each card. The donor can collect a card from the tree and buy a gift for the child whose name is on it. After wrapping the gift, the tag is placed on the gift and dropped off at the same tree.
“At the end of November, we have a Christmas party for all the children. We have jumping castles, games and food. Once the tags are all taken off , we place new ones that ask people to go to their local Spar or Pick ‘n Pay to purchase a R100 food bucket, which will be given to their families,” said John.
In 2020, when the project started, 50 children received gifts, and 100 received them in 2021. This year, John is hoping for 120. He asked for donors to spend no more than R400. He also extended an invitation to corporate companies to get involved in the drive to spread Christmas joy.
The trees are placed at Braai and Lawaai, Thirsty Whale, Kingsburgh Pick ‘n Pay and at the Kingsburgh Centre.
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