Spokesperson for the Tokai Lions Club, Mark Rossouw, said they have been trying to make Christmas special for the children since 2018. Picture: Supplied
Cape Town - The Lions Club of Tokai has brought Christmas cheer to 80 underprivileged children from the Jabula informal settlement in Philippi, Marsh Memorial Children’s Home in Rondebosch, and orphanages and places of safety around Cape Town.
The children were invited to the annual Christmas Party on Saturday at the Lions Club of Tokai’s Clubhouse, where they were treated to a nail and temporary tattoo bar, face painting, a magic show, a balloon show, as well as a visit by a fire engine from the Lakeside Fire Station.
The City of Cape Town’s litter mascot, Bingo, also joined in the fun as he came along to teach the children about keeping their environment litter free.
Spokesperson for the Tokai Lions Club, Mark Rossouw, said they have been trying to make Christmas special for the children since 2018.
“The party is hosted early, as some of the children at the places of safety sometimes go home to extended family members for the school holidays, which is why we always try to host the event before the school holidays starts,” said Rossouw.
“For a large number of the recipients, it is the only Christmas party and gifts that they receive and this is the reason we host this day to make it all the more special for the children. The fact that some of the children come from an informal settlement as well as from places of safety and orphanages, also contribute to our resolve to host this party.”
Making the day even more special for the children was a surprise visit from Father Christmas who came bearing gifts and handed out personalised Christmas gifts to each child.
In addition, each child received school stationery, a hearty breakfast, lunch, soft serve ice cream from an ice cream van and fruit.
“The event was a resounding success and the club would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to all the sponsors, donors and other service providers who were instrumental and played a pivotal role on the day. They all mutually contributed to the success of this momentous event.
“A special thank you is furthermore conveyed to all the chaperones from the various organisations and last but not least, to all the volunteers and club members who collectively contributed to the unambiguous success of this mainstay club project,” said Rossouw.
marsha.dean@inl.co.za