Unchain Our Children's Heartwarming Christmas Celebrations: Bringing Joy and Hope to Vulnerable Children in Danville and Villieria

linettelintvelt
Dec 9, 2025
4 min read

In the spirit of the festive season, Unchain Our Children (UOC), a dedicated South African non-profit organization combating human trafficking, child abuse, gender-based violence, and other violations, hosted two uplifting Christmas celebrations on Saturday, 6 December 2025. These events, held in Danville and Villieria, Pretoria, aimed to ignite joy in the hearts of children who have endured profound hardships—including loneliness, isolation, severe hunger, and poverty throughout much of their young lives.

Founded by Wayne van Onselen in 2016, UOC has a long-standing commitment to safeguarding vulnerable children through rescue operations, trauma counselling, awareness campaigns, and community outreach programs like the Junior Battle Angels initiative, which has reached over 520 school participants in Pretoria alone . The celebrations highlighted the extraordinary generosity of individuals, companies, and corporates who opened their hearts and resources, transforming the holidays into a beacon of hope and demonstrating consistent care for the most at-risk members of society.

Danville Christmas Celebration: A Day of Festive Magic and Community Support

On Saturday,168 children from the Danville community gathered at Westerlig Primary School for a memorable Christmas event organized by UOC, Geseende Hande and More Worship Church. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as Wayne van Onselen, UOC's founder, arrived dressed as Father Christmas, welcoming the children with warm smiles and holiday cheer. Partnering organizations added layers of inspiration and fun: the Doxa Deo Team delivered the true message of Christmas through enchanting songs and a heartfelt play, while the More Worship Church Team enhanced the joyful vibe with their uplifting presence.

Tables overflowed with thoughtfully curated gifts, a testament to the abundant goodwill from UOC's network of supporters. These contributions ensured every child left with something special, reminding them they are seen and valued amid their daily struggles. Refreshments were plentiful, thanks to the generous provisions from Geseende Hande, which included delicious eats and drinks that delighted the young attendees. Such acts of kindness from compassionate donors not only addressed immediate needs but also fostered a sense of belonging for children who have often faced isolation and deprivation.

This event builds on UOC's ongoing outreach in Danville, where the organization has previously collaborated with local schools and communities for anti-abuse workshops and support programs, reflecting their unwavering dedication to vulnerable populations.

UOC's Deep Gratitude to Sponsors and Partners: Champions of Consistent Care

The success of the Danville celebration was made possible by the selfless generosity of sponsors and partners, many of whom have demonstrated long-term commitment to UOC's mission. Their contributions go beyond one-time gifts, embodying a sustained effort to uplift children trapped in cycles of poverty and exploitation.

Chris Dykes, Michele Torlutter and their Team: Delivered armfuls of gifts, continuing his legacy of support. Dykes, a passionate advocate, has organized gruelling endurance events like the NOTTIES100—a 100km walk in 24 hours—to raise awareness and funds for UOC's anti-trafficking initiatives, including a 2025 edition that earned him the Drum Major Award alongside collaborators . His previous efforts supporting UOC, underscore his consistent care for the vulnerable.
Ethan Fryer who donated a bike to the Danville party and fulfilled a wish and a dream of a teen.
Geseende Hande: Partner Organization of Unchain Our Children and Danville’s beacon of hope feeding thousands weekly.
Pro Shield Guarding Services: A trusted partner organization supporting Unchain Our Children in operational activities and events.
Friedland, Hart Solomon & Nicolson Attorneys: Provided special gifts for children under three years old. This firm has a history of community involvement, aligning with UOC's legal advocacy in child protection cases, showing their ongoing commitment to justice for exploited youth.
Boerboel Wear: Supplied a T-shirt for every child, adding a personal touch of warmth. As a local apparel brand, they've previously supported UOC's community drives, contributing to clothing distributions for at-risk families.
Zulzi: Donated sweet parcels that brought smiles to many faces. This on-demand delivery service has partnered with UOC in past food relief efforts, helping combat hunger among impoverished children in Pretoria's underserved areas.

These sponsors exemplify how individuals and corporates can channel their resources during the festive season to make a tangible difference, offering not just material aid but emotional solace to children who have known little but hardship.

A Principal's Heartfelt Praise: Acknowledging Lasting Impact

Carina Nienaber, Principal of Westerlig Primary School, captured the event's profound effect in a touching letter of appreciation:

"On behalf of the staff, learners, and parents of Laerskool Westerlig, I wish to extend our deepest gratitude to you for hosting a Christmas Party for the children of our Danville community, and especially for our learners. Thank you for your incredible involvement and unwavering support throughout the year. Your dedication to our children and community makes a profound difference, and as Principal, I cannot express my gratitude enough. May you be richly blessed for all the blessings you so selflessly give. To everyone involved with Unchain Our Children, I wish a peaceful, joyful, and restful festive season."

Her words highlight UOC's year-round partnerships with schools, including previous collaborations on educational outreach and safety programs that have empowered hundreds of students.