Annual Christmas luncheon to bring hope and joy to children in need

This December, the spirit of giving shines brightly as Hope for the Future prepares for its 7th annual Christmas luncheon, an event dedicated to spreading joy to hundreds of children from impoverished backgrounds supported by its year-round feeding initiatives.

With three kitchens in Heideveld, Bonteheuwel, and Blikkiesdorp driving the initiative, Hope for the Future is set to brighten the lives of hundreds of children. These kitchens transform into bustling hubs of compassion, where dedicated volunteers work tirelessly to prepare a festive feast that reflects the true spirit of Christmas.

The luncheon aims to ensure that joy reaches those who need it most this festive season, beginning in Blikkiesdorp, where 400 children will be hosted.

The team aims to go all out in preparing a special two-course meal for the children, featuring fried chicken and braai chops, complemented by a spread of fresh salads, sweet desserts, and an assortment of juice and cold drinks.

According to Hope for the Future founder Vanessa Nelson, every child who attends the organisation’s feeding schemes receives an invitation to the Christmas luncheon.

“We want to ensure that each child feels included and cherished. We take special care in preparing personalised gifts for every child, wrapping them according to age and name and placing them beneath a beautifully decorated Christmas tree," said Nelson. 

The festive atmosphere is further enriched by the presence of Father Christmas, who will help distribute the gifts. 

The organisation concludes its philanthropic efforts on December 16 each year, allowing volunteers to focus on their families during the Christmas season.

Nelson reflects on the impact of the luncheon: “For many of these children, this event is often their only experience of receiving a Christmas gift. It's about putting a smile on their faces and showing them the spirit of giving. To see a child's joy when they receive a wrapped Christmas present is an overwhelming experience. We aim to bless children who may not otherwise receive gifts, and this initiative touches the hearts of all involved." 

She emphasises that the significance of Christmas transcends religious boundaries, reinforcing shared values of love and generosity.

Nelson is appealing for donations, whether ingredients, gifts, or monetary contributions, to make the day a success.

“Every little bit helps, be it chicken, mayonnaise, potatoes, baked beans, cooldrink or custard. If you plan to purchase gifts for your grandchildren, we would be more than happy to collect your donations from any store. We need gifts for boys and girls 3 to 16,” she said.

Hope for the Future is a registered Section 18A organisation, which means it can also issue tax certificates for monetary donations.

To donate, Nelson can be contacted on 076 073 6777.

Cape Times