It’s a well-known fact that holiday lights spread cheer. Last year, that cheer from Geesdorf, Germany, reached as far as South Africa thanks to the work of the Lordo family and Mix for Kids. The Lordos decorate their house for the holiday season, and in December 2023 they hosted a packed event which saw Mix for Kids and other supporters raise a total of 3,000 euros through the sale of food and beverages as well as from the guests’ generous donations. The money went to helping children in Mbongolwane, 500 kilometers southeast of the metropolis of Johannesburg.

Back in Germany, the Oberzell Abbey in Würzburg helps to support a children’s home in Mbongolwane. The Franciscan nuns rely on donations to run the home, which provides a safe haven for 30 children under the age of 15, in this deprived region. All of these children come from difficult backgrounds and cannot remain with their families due to poverty, violence or neglect.

Everyday necessities including food and clothing, diapers and formula, school supplies and toys have become very expensive in South Africa. That’s why the 3,000 euros from Geesdorf came at just the right time to purchase urgently needed items. A new refrigerator and two freezers will be able to store food in the kitchen, while all the children also received new clothes – from socks, pants, dresses, sweaters and belts to jackets, winter clothes and shoes. The bathrooms were restocked with new towels and school supplies such as pens, paper, presentation materials, book covers and arts and crafts materials were also purchased.

The children in Mbongolwane were thrilled, and the Oberzell Abbey was very grateful for the support from Mix for Kids, explaining: “We were delighted that you thought of the children we support in South Africa.”