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MOSSEL BAY NEWS & VIDEO - Thousands of children in the greater Mossel Bay area shared in the spirit of Christmas this week, thanks to a generous sponsorship and the successful co-operation of several non-governmental organisations.
For the first time, 17 local NGOs joined forces and presented a collective proposal to Grinaker/LTA, which sponsored the project.
The first of the Christmas outreaches took place on Tuesday, 5 December and the last one concluded today, Friday 8 December.
Apart from the suburban areas of greater Mossel Bay, the surrounding rural areas were also taken into account and events were hosted there too.
According to Jerome Meyer, chair of the NGO forum in Mossel Bay, the aim of the project was to cater for 6 000 children.
The event format was set to be duplicated, and apart from the Christmas festivities, included an opportunity to empower children with essential safety tips for the summer holiday.
Maryke Zeeman from the municipal traffic department and the ever-popular Danny Cat shared road safety tips, while Warrant Officer Tatta Marks from the SAPS Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit spoke to the children on how to be on the alert for sexual abuse.
There was also a discussion on beach and water safety.
More than 6 000 children in the greater Mossel Bay area benefitted from the Christmas outreach.
In his address, Grinaker/LTA project leader Mark Augustine said being involved at the PetroSA shutdown in the past few months, he had become highly aware of the needs among the community of Mossel Bay, which acted as a catalyst for his firm's involvement.
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He expressed his admiration for the way in which the NGOs worked as a unified force. Jerome Meyer echoed this, saying the co-operation among the different organisations was simply heartwarming.
"Many people say there is no co-operation in Mossel Bay. It is simply not true."
During his presentation to the children at the Volkskerk in Extension 8, where the project started on Tuesday, Augustine encouraged the children to be leaders.
"That's what Jesus did. He was a leader and he led by example. You must realise that each and every single one of you is a gift from God.
"You are the leaders - the future presidents, doctors and CEOs. We had our opportunities.
Jerome Meyer addressing nearly 400 children at the start of the Christmas project this week. Standing, far right, is Mark Augustine, project leader for Grinaker/LTA, which sponsored the project.
"Now, it is your turn. It doesn't matter what people tell you to bring you down, say: 'No, I am a leader'," Augustine said.
ARTICLE, VIDEO & PHOTOS: CORNELLE CARSTENS, MOSSEL BAY ADVERTISER JOURNALIST
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