(Playtime at the
Malvern Children’s Home (NB: The picture purposefully does not identify the
children)
Malvern Children’s Home is a place of safety and, for many
of its 123 children, the only real home they will ever know. But like most
children’s homes across the country, this one is also under threat because of
growing needs and lack of funding.
On July 26, the home hosts its annual fundraising carnival and
everyone is invited to come along and make a difference in a child’s life. The
carnival will include food stalls, tombola stalls, a vintage car and dog
display, singers and other performers, including a clown and magician.
As much as the dedicated child care workers at the home try
to give these children a “normal” life, there is a lot they need – not least of
which is love and affection. A visit to the home reveals that there is so much
to be done. Most of the houses need a lick of paint, some cheerful décor, new
bedding and curtains and shelves for clothing.
When you ask the child care workers to “dream big”, the wish
list seems insurmountable. From the most basic to the “blue sky” needs, the
list includes everything from clothes to cleaning materials and funding for
private sector psychiatrists and clinical psychologists.
“Even more essential, however, are volunteers who can just
spend time with the children,” says home director Gerhard Botha. “We
desperately need soccer, hockey and netball coaches or even people who can give
some time to just play with the children or help them with their homework and
studies. By supporting our carnival, you will be helping us fulfil some of our
dreams.”
The fundraiser takes place on July 26 from 09h00 to 14h30 at
the Malvern Children’s Home, 11 Coniston Avenue, Malvern. Entry is free, but
visitors are asked to donate children’s toiletries, which can be placed in the
collection boxes on the day.
Any donations or assistance of any kind for the home will be
greatly appreciated. Contact Naomi at: naomi.oosthuysen@malvernchildrenshome.co.za
or call: 031 464 0236.
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