Pizza house hosts the first of many charity days for abused and abandoned children
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Fun and pizza were the order of the day on 30 August when Forno Italiano hosted the first of many charity days for the St Laurence’s Children’s Haven in Ruimsig.
More than 20 children between the ages of two and 20 years were spoiled to outdoor playing and party packs away from the daily hustle of chores and school activities.
The aim of the day was to raise collective awareness for abused and abandoned children that end up in children homes.
The kiddies were greeted to treats and sweets to fuel them up for the fun in the sun that followed at the restaurant’s kiddies area, which included a make-shift pirate boat and, of course, a jumping castle.
With the weather playing along, the staff at Forno Italiano were more than happy to entertain their guests and provided face paints and hair colouring before taking the fun inside.
A make-shift pizza station was set up for the ultimate pizza chef, as the kids created their own pizzas complete with all the toppings available.
Ottillia Malan, who takes care of the kids with her husband said, “It has been amazing today. They are able to just help themselves to everything and make their own pizzas which is great because back at the home they share everything. It’s wonderful because they are allowed to be themselves.”
A playroom was set up to keep the older children entertained with movies that ran as long as their attention span.
Forno Italiano’s marketing manager Michelle Smith said they hope to make the charity day a regular event for more homes in the area.
“The day has been going very well and the turnout is bigger than we expected it to be. We are looking forward to giving out the goodie bags and making pizzas with everyone”
Richard Malan has been the caregiver for the home for more than a decade and said the day was not about juts giving out items to the children but it is about spending time with them.
He added that the day was a building block for all of them and they are able to eat and play.
Forno Italiano Wilgeheuwel would like to thank Steve at Witpoortjie Pick ‘n Pay; Luis at Witpoortjie R5 Shop; Laurette Hartman at Witpoortjie Koek ‘n Loer; Caxton; On the Road Media; Sally Williams; ABI and Adega Restaurants for their sponsorship.
Details: St Laurence’s Children’s Haven caregiver Richard Malan 079 667 7783.
