The Promosa Community Youth Centre (PCYC) hosted its second annual Santa Gift Box Closing Event in a heartwarming celebration at The Grens Park in Promosa. This event, a beacon of community spirit and generosity, marked the culmination of a year of impactful programs and engagement with the youth, children, and artists of the area.

A Festive Day of Giving and Joy

Thanks to the generous sponsorship of 150 Santa gift boxes from PEP Store’s Santa Gift Box initiative, children and youth in Promosa were gifted with smiles and festive cheer. The closing event saw these beautifully wrapped gifts distributed in a vibrant park setting, bringing a magical atmosphere to The Grens.

Beyond the joy of gift-giving, the PCYC ensured that over 200 attendees were treated to a hearty meal. The food was made possible by the unwavering support of community sponsors, along with contributions from a dedicated 17-year-old staff member who stepped in to cover additional needs. This extraordinary gesture underscored the commitment of PCYC’s team to making a difference in the lives of the community.

Donations and Outreach

The Patriotic Alliance Party contributed to the event by donating clothing, which was distributed among the attendees. Those who had not participated in PCYC’s programs throughout the year were not left out—they received warm meals and clothing, ensuring that everyone left the event with something to cherish.

A Platform for Stakeholder Support

Stakeholders from various organisations graced the event, addressing and inspiring the youth. Representatives from the Democratic Alliance (DA), Patriotic Alliance (PA), Local Economic Development (LED) Consumer Department, and Santa Gift Box initiative shared messages of hope, encouragement, and solidarity. Their presence underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in uplifting the community.

Looking Ahead: Family Arts and Culture Event

As the year draws to a close, PCYC has one more exciting event lined up: the Family Arts and Culture Event on 13 December 2024, at Die Onderkant. This event promises to be a vibrant celebration of local talent, featuring dance, singing, rapping, and other performances by the community’s artists. Food will be available for purchase, making it an event for families to come together, enjoy the arts, and support local talent.

A Memorable Year-End

Reflecting on the Santa Gift Box Closing Event, PCYC’s organisers expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support from sponsors, stakeholders, and community members. “At the end of the day, we were able to put smiles on everyone’s faces,” they shared. This sentiment encapsulates the spirit of PCYC’s work—creating moments of joy, fostering community connections, and offering hope to all.

For those looking to make a difference or participate in future events, PCYC continues to welcome support and engagement as it strives to build a brighter future for Promosa’s youth and community.

*All photos were provided by Leilanie Natasja Barends, Promosa Community Youth Centre (PCYC) CAC, Chairperson/Founder