The Hamlet Foundation in Regents Park held a Christmas in July fundraiser on July 25.
The Hamlet Foundation is an NGO that has grown and developed to include a school for 270 intellectually disabled children, residential centers for 60 intellectually disabled adults and a protective workshop for 200 intellectually disabled adult workers.
The fundraiser was held to allow individuals who no longer have families to enjoy Christmas in July as other foundation residents are not around during December.
Fhumulani Nefumbadtha, the social auxiliary worker at the Hamlet Foundation, spoke about why this event is important to the residents.
”There are individuals who are permanent residents and unfortunately don’t have families to celebrate Christmas with. This event allows everyone to be included and experience the joys of Christmas.” Fhumulani said.
The event also raised funds for the foundation to renovate their premises and to maintain the hostels where their residents live.
“The proceeds from the event will go towards maintaining the buildings we use and to buy new bedding for our residents,” she continued.
Hamlet’s chairperson Les Griffin felt the need to hold this event as a way of bringing a joyous celebration for the residents to enjoy.
“We needed to bring the Christmas spirit to the foundation so that our learners, residents and staff can experience the beauty of it, all together. We also need the funds to maintain the premises and to make sure that the residents have the best living conditions possible,” Les said.
