Lions Club of Tokai spreads festive cheer with Christmas projects
Lions Club of Tokai members spread festive cheer to children and the elderly during their Christmas projects, bringing gifts, treats, and smiles to the community.
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The Lions Club of Tokai spread Christmas joy across the Cape Town community with a series of festive projects in early December, culminating in a day of three major initiatives this Saturday, December 13.
The season began with the club’s annual Children’s Christmas Party on Saturday, December 6, which welcomed 75 children from the Jabula informal settlement in Philippi, the Marsh Memorial Children’s Home in Rondebosch, and the Amazing Grace Upliftment Centre in Westlake.
The day was packed with fun activities, including a nail and tattoo bar, face painting, a magic show, a balloon show, cupcake decorating, and a special visit from the Lakeside Fire Station’s fire engine.
The highlight was Father Christmas personally handing out Christmas gifts to each child.
“For many of these children, the gift they receive at this party will be their only Christmas present,” said Mark Rossouw of the Tokai Lions. In addition to gifts, every child received school stationery, a hearty breakfast, lunch, soft-serve ice cream, and fresh fruit, making the day a memorable and joyful experience.
The festive spirit continued on Saturday, December 13, when the Lions Club of Tokai hosted three Christmas-themed projects in one ambitious day.
Christmas gift bags ready to bring festive cheer to residents of the Ryberg Terraces Old Age Home.
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The first project took place at Tygerberg Hospital’s Children’s Ward G6, where young patients recovering from childhood cancer and orthopaedic procedures received gift bags, blankets, medals, beanies, and treats.
“Some of these children will spend the entire festive season in hospital, so it’s vital for us to bring a little magic and comfort to their day,” Mr Rossouw said.
Lions District 410W first vice district governor, Herman Laubscher, added to the festivities by joining the party dressed as Father Christmas.
Next, the club delivered Christmas gift bags to 45 residents at the Ryberg Terraces Old Age Home in Hanover Park.
“Many of these residents live alone, so the Christmas handover is about companionship as much as gifts. It’s a way of letting them know they’re remembered and valued during the festive season,” Mr Rossouw explained.
The final project saw the Lions visiting the Douglas Murray Old Age Home in Retreat, where residents received tablecloths, placemats, and Lions Christmas cakes.
“Christmas is a time of giving and community,” Mr Rossouw said. “We’re proud to extend that spirit to all corners of our community, from children in hospitals to the elderly in care homes.”
Lions and volunteers at Tygerberg Hospital’s Children’s Ward G6. From left: Herman Laubscher, Christiane Savoia, Paula Lang, Colleen De Villiers, Kauthar Behardien-Van Reenen, Gail Darling, and Claire Stockenstrom.
Image: Supplied
Mr Rossouw extended heartfelt thanks to all involved in making these projects possible, including the Cape Town Lions Club, Herman Laubscher, and generous donors such as the 67 Blankets for Mandela organisation and Meals on Wheels.
“It’s through the dedication and teamwork of our members and volunteers that we can bring so much joy during the festive season,” he added.