Kicking the dust into swirls on nameless streets, bending the knee to absorb the curious eyes of another child left orphaned, massaging swollen feet so grossly disproportionate to the skin-and-boned bodies of magogos and young ladies taken too early... These are every day moments in the life of Hammanskraal.
This urban settlement just north of Pretoria, like many others in South Africa, is abuzz with economic opportunity and rapid development. But look beyond the shine of a new shopping mall, and you’ll easily begin to see the gaping holes in a community's fabric, ravaged and ripped apart by the claws of a raging disease called HIV/AIDS.
Approximately two million children are currently left orphaned in South Africa, tens of thousands in Hammanskraal alone. Countless others are victims of domestic abuse, rape and violence. Speak to Mama Catherine, who cares for over 80 children at the Tshwaraganang orphanage, and she will tell you how the prospect of an orphanage amongst strangers so often promises more safety than the walls of one's own home.
Some members of 3Ci have offered their time and assistance to two homes of safety in particular – Ebenezer House and Tshwaraganang. Under the care of committed house parents, the children living in these homes are more fortunate than many. But the reality of matching the financial demands is usually unmet, and some of the basic amenities we take for granted, such as food, blankets, clothing and electricity, are a grand luxury.
But here's where we can make a difference.
Spar-3Ci Nappy Run 2012
On Saturday, March 24, at 7am, 3Ci, in conjunction with Spar, will host the first Spar-3Ci Nappy Run in support of the Hammanskraal community. The event will take place in conjunction with the Tierlantyntjies Market, which will be hosted on the eight-hectare premises of Capital Communities Church International (3Ci) on 56 Saal Street, Zwavelpoort. The five-kilometre run (or walk) is for families and others who simply want to support the cause. For the more competitive athletes, a ten-kilometre run will be set out.
The event will take place throughout the scenic back-roads of Zwavelpoort – an ideal location in terms of marshalling, water spots and open roads.
The entry fee? A pack of nappies, which will go towards Ebenezer House and Tshwaraganang, with whom 3Ci partners in Hammanskraal. Furthermore, for every nappy purchased at a local chain, Spar will match with a pack of wet wipes, contributing up to R10 000 worth of wipes.
The race will end at the entrance of the Tierlantyntjies Market, a three-day event which draws together some of the most talented artisans and craftsmen in South Africa. The market is a great family weekend destination, with food stalls, crafts and free entertainment for children, and is quickly becoming a renown annual event in Pretoria East. What better way to cool down than with a gourmet breakfast and a stroll through the alleyways of stalls?
Come partner with us in making this event a success. Let's make history together.
3Ci will set up a registration table for the Spar-3Ci Nappy Run 2012 at the back of the tent every Sunday, from 4 March to 18 March. Registration will also be possible on the day. For more information, please contact Samantha Jooste on 072 672 0266, or click here to email her.