The Executive Mayor of George, Charles Standers came up with the idea to entertain children of at least six informal crèches in the George area, by giving them a super Christmas party at the George Civic Centre. They were entertained with jumping castles, yummy food, presents and other goodies.
The event was made possible when the George Herald's Operations Director, Nicole Rimbault joined forces with Mayor Standers. Together with the personnel of the mayor's office, the George Herald started to organise and market the planned event.
The community opened their hearts to this project and donations started streaming in. Businesses like Data Dot, Computer Traders and the Muslim community made donations to this project.
Major sponsor, Data Dot not only donated R20 000 towards gifts, they also gave R12 000 for lovely eats and drinks for all the children who received more than 600 Christmas presents.
Monday was the big day, and Father Christmas arrived on a fire engine with sirens blaring and lights flashing, much to the delight of the children. He was accompanied by the mayor, several municipal councillors, as well as the Editor of the George Herald, Ilse Schoonraad and Lorraine Verhagen from the office of the Operations Director.
The children then walked into a civic centre full of surprises. They were welcomed by Standers and Schoonraad, said a prayer and then sang Joy to the World before the party started.
* George se uitvoerende burgemeester, mnr. Charles Standers en die George Herald het saam met verskeie borge Maandag 'n Kersfunksie vir ongeveer 550 kinders van informele chrèches gehou. Data Dot was die hoofborg en het R32 000 bygedra.
View more photos here.
Father Christmas arriving on a fire engine, together with the Deputy Executive Mayor, Daniël Maritz and Councillor Iona Kritzinger.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOS: CHRISTO VERMAAK, GEORGE HERALD JOURNALIST
