Cape Point hosts party for HOKISA kids

Wishes, donated to the kids by Pick 'n Pay staff, PUMA South Africa and Cape Point, included soccer boots, soccer balls, sneakers, clothing and toys. "Our annual Christmas party with HOKISA is the highlight of our calendar and leaves us in awe of people across the globe dedicating their lives to others in need. It has been moving to have such generous contributions from the staff of Pick 'n Pay and PUMA to team up with Cape Point in making the kids' dreams come true this year," said Cape Point marketing manager, Judiet Barnes.

Thankful for kindness

"All involved parties have opened their hearts in the spirit of the festive season and granted, not just one, but up to three Christmas wishes a child. We are very thankful for their kindness in making this day come together for the children who would otherwise not receive Christmas presents. A big thank you as well to HG Travelling Services for transporting the kids and to SANParks for providing entry into the park," Barnes said.

The celebration included a ride up the Flying Dutchman funicular, built in 1996 and named after the Flying Dutchman ghost ship sighted by sailors over the past three-and-a-half centuries. The children had fun travelling from the lower station to the old lighthouse where they enjoyed exceptional panoramic views of their surroundings, before heading back down to the feast that awaited them at Two Oceans restaurant. After celebrations, food and singing by the restaurant staff, Father Christmas arrived to hand out the gifts to the kids.

Giving back to community

"For Pick n Pay, giving back to communities is part of the DNA of our company. Helping the children of HOKISA have a wonderful Christmas is one of the many ways we are giving back this festive season and our way of saying thank you to all our customers, who support and shop with us," said Andre Nel, general manager of sustainability at Pick 'n Pay.

HOKISA was founded in 2001 in Masiphumelele informal settlement near Noordhoek in Cape Town, as a non-governmental organisation to contribute in the fight against AIDS. HOKISA cares for children living with, and affected by, HIV/Aids, full-time and in a family environment. When family members or neighbours cannot look after a child, they are placed at HOKISA by state authorities. Family members are encouraged to keep in touch with the children wherever possible.