Local centre for children pleads for donations
“We thought the idea of having a fundraising event would do since we would be working together with the children."
Rena Le Lona Creative Centre for Children recently hosted a fundraising event with an aim to obtain funds for day to day running of the centre.
Gauteng MEC for Social Development, Mbali Hlophe previously announced that her department will now reprioritise funds towards substance abuse, homelessness and youth development.
This life changing announcement left NGOs distraught and some organisations had no choice but to close their doors, leaving beneficiaries stranded.
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Rena Le Lona Centre for Children was one of the NGOs affected by the MEC’s decision. However, this time the centre decided to take matters into their own hands by raising funds through their drama and artistic performances to keep doors open and help feed the children.
Centre manager, Mlungisi Mvelase said they are still affected by the MEC’s decision but their aim and goal is still to keep children away from the streets while ensuring that they have access to meals after school.
“We thought the idea of having a fundraising event would do since we would be working together with the children.
“We cannot sit back, fold our hands and feel sorry for ourselves while our children go to bed on hungry stomachs.
“However, we still hope that the premier will reconsider the decision since it has affected us greatly,” Mvelase said.
He added that they have been struggling to make ends meet but with the assistance of stakeholders such as Diepkloof Square Roots Butchery, Woolworths South gate, Diepkloof Sqaure BSI Steel and Debonairs Pizza they have been able to feed the children.
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“We are kindly calling on more businesses and residents to come on board and assist us in keeping this home for the children open and help feed our future leaders,” concluded Mvelase.
For more information, readers can them on their Facebook page, Rena Le Lona creative centre, send an email to mlungisim51@gmail.com or call us 072 881 6444
