Online Reporter
Mthokozisi Ncube
CHRISTMAS came early for 17 vulnerable children in Pumula suburb after a local women led organisation rolled into the township with hampers, hope and plenty of festive cheer.
Feminine Rosa lit up Ward 27 on December 21 when it delivered Christmas hampers packed with foodstuffs and toiletries, turning what could have been a gloomy festive season into a day of smiles and full tummies.
For the children, many of whom are being raised by elderly grandparents struggling to make ends meet, it was a Christmas they will long remember.
Feminine Rosa, which was founded in December 2020, has quietly been doing community work on a small scale while learning the ropes. Now the organisation says it is ready to spread its wings and reach more people in need, especially young girls and challenged women.
The organisation focuses on providing clothing, sanitary wear, shelter and medical supplies to needy girls and women, while also pushing for equal access to education for vulnerable children.
Vice chairperson Siwatholile Mabhena said the idea behind the hampers was simple but heartfelt.
“We just thought this might help vulnerable children have a good meal as they celebrate Christmas,” she said.
“We also included toiletries with the hope that this will help them maintain good hygiene. Most of the children we have adopted are under the care of the elderly who cannot really provide for them.”
The handover was an emotional moment as children clutched their hampers, some breaking into shy smiles, others clearly overwhelmed by the attention and kindness.
Pumula Ward 27 councillor Lizzy Sibanda praised the initiative, saying the help had reached the right hands at the right time.
“The hampers were given to children who really needed the help,” she said.
“We pray that as Ward 27 we keep on getting this kind of support from various organisations.”
As Christmas songs echoed softly in the background, Feminine Rosa proved that the festive season is not about flashy lights or expensive gifts, but about sharing, dignity and reminding the forgotten that they too matter.
In Pumula, at least 17 young hearts will be going to bed this Christmas with full stomachs and renewed hope.
