Franschhoek restaurants raise half a million for street kids
Franschhoek participates in the StreetSmart SA initiative, which raises funds for street children and children in need. At an event held at Fyndraai Restaurant, Solms Delta, earlier this week, StreetSmart SA handed over a cheque to the value of R300 000 to Youth Empowerment Action (YEA).
YEA is the nominated beneficiary and Franschhoek's only NGO to work with street children. It will use the donation towards employing a social worker, auxiliary social worker, street workers, life-skills facilitation and transport costs.
Participating restaurants place specially marked table cards on their dining tables for patrons to peruse and should they wish to donate, R5 is added to their bill. A nominal fee for such a worthy cause, but in doing so the Franschhoek restaurants have, collectively, managed to raise over R500 000 to date, and all funds raised are donated to a nominated beneficiary.
Tourists encouraged not to give money
Franschhoek is in the fortunate position in which it does not have as many street children as other areas and so efforts are concentrated on preventative measures for the valley. Tourists are encouraged not to give money to street children. Local businesses support the work done by YEA and in showing their support display marketing material in their establishment, educating visitors to the area about street children.
Local StreetSmart SA supporters include Bread & Wine, Fyndraai at Solms Delta, French Connection, Haute Cabrière, Le Bon Vivant, Le Quartier Français, Monneaux, Reuben's and The Grill Room.
