Eden Community Outreach and the Cape Flats YMCA held a holiday programme for Tafelsig’s children at the Yellowwood Primary School hall, from Monday June 26 to Friday June 30.
Berenice Roman, director of Eden Community Outreach and a member of YMCA Cape Flats, said a lot of fun was had by all, and meals were served daily to the children.
The theme focused on health and safety, and there were presentations by City Law Enforcement and a dental hygienist and talks on gender violence and bullying.
“This is needed in our community. We identified that our children sometimes struggle with their hygiene and health. Some of them still show up in dirty clothes, but we could assist them and educate them on how to take care of themselves at home,” Ms Roman said.
One of the facilitators, Yorick Adams, said holiday programmes were a safe haven for children living in communities plagued by gangs and drugs. “It’s better than being on the streets as they get to be busy with activities,” he said.
Celine Hurling, 13, said she had made new friends and learnt more about her health, while Diago Alfos, 14, said: “We have to hear gunshots all the time. It is programmes like this that help keep us in the right place at the right time as they will also enhance my future and the choices I make.”
Dennis Abrahams, vice-chairman of the Tafelsig West Neighbourhood Watch, said: “Life is not so good here. When the children go home, they can leave and speak of what they’ve learned to their friends. We encourage the community to join the neighbourhood watch to help us. If we are many, this will help us in fighting crime.”
He thanked all those who had helped with the holiday programme.
For more information, contact Ms Roman at 083 765 7671.
