Santa brings joy to struggling families

CHRISTMAS CHEER

- TRACY-LYNN RUITERS

SANTA arrived in Touws River to spread festive cheer, laughter and hope as one of the largest humanitarian distributions in the town's history brought Christmas joy to hundreds of struggling families.

With the sound of excited children filling the streets, Gift of the Givers teams distributed 520 food parcels alongside 1,200 Christmas presents and party packs. In total, 419 families received hampers packed with nonperishable food items designed to last beyond the festive season, as well as 2kg of chicken per household, a vital lifeline for families who would otherwise not have been able to afford meat at Christmas.

Touws River has faced ongoing hardship since the Covid-19 pandemic, with record levels of unemployment and many residents still struggling to recover financially. The ongoing economic strain has forced extended families to live together, often with grandparents, parents and children sharing a single dwelling while trying to survive on limited income.

Rashaad Baker, chairperson of Compassionate Hearts, an NPO based in Touws River, said the reality for many families is one of overcrowding and constant financial pressure.