about the holiday programme

The Holiday Programme is a lovely programme of Ready 4 Life. As holiday sets in for all learners, most have really not much to do but hang around in the streets. You see in Helenvale there are not many things to do; it is a township with abject poverty. So most learners get into trouble over the holidays.

Since November 2007 Ready 4 Life has entertained and edu-tained children in Helenvale during holidays. By now many children are excited when they see a white person during holidays; it means fun, games, excitement and.....prizes.

In all the depressed atmosphere of poverty and lack of most things, to have excited children who are entertained but really are learning a lot is the goal of Ready 4 Life. We have programmes like spijkerpoepen (jawel) to hygiene lessons. From aerobics to drawing and cutting their own picture. From straat krijt to catching a ball. All the programmes are built up in such a way that the children learn by playing. So with the volunteers that are present and Avril and Franklin, a programme is set up. We move per day from street to another street. In this way we are able to reach more and different kids. And with a bit of music in the background and dancing and singing, the excitement of all is tangible. and when you are home and relax after another day in Helenvale, you know that every second was worth it. The childrens enthusiasm and energy have convinced you of that.

Love
Marieke Robers