On Sunday, nearly 100 children in Bonteheuwel were blessed with Ramadaan Shoeboxes filled with much-needed essentials to make the Muslim holy month extra special this year.
The Bonteheuwel Joint Peace Forum last week requested assistance from anyone willing to donate items to make life a little easier for the community’s kids, some whom do not even have the bare essentials.
Initially, the JPF requested items like toothpaste, a toothbrush, washcloth, soap, socks, underwear, educational supplies and stationery, toys and a packet of sweets for just 30 children.
But they say after a tremendous response from donors, they had enough donations so that 96 children could receive a Ramadaan Shoebox.
The community organisation said the focus was on giving poor children a gift to take them through the final days of the fast, which is set to end on Friday, 15 June, depending on the sighting of the new moon.
The JPF’s Nadia Mayman Da Grass says they are stunned at how many people assisted.
“The maiden Ramadaan Shoebox Project was a major success, with an initial intention of 30 boxes, moving midway to 60 boxes and finally to 96 boxes. Through the grace and mercy of Allah we managed to give an additional 30 packs and approximately 40 party packets to kiddies not on the list. We are so very grateful,” she says.
“This could only ever be done through the generosity of our donors and sponsors. Shukran, thank you, dankie to all. We look forward to reaching even more kids next year.”