Unchain Our Children’s Villieria Christmas Celebration: Picnic, Gifts, and Touching Tributes

linettelintvelt
5 days ago
3 min read

Villiera, Pretoria, 6 December - The celebration at Christ Life Revival Ministries on 30th Avenue brought together children rescued and safeguarded by UOC throughout the year, along with their home parents and teens from the weekly support group led by UOC's social worker, Nicky McDonald. The air was filled with anticipation as the children awaited their hero, Wayne van Onselen, and Santa—portrayed by the ever-supportive Chris Dykes—who arrived in style courtesy of Shekinah 911, a partner known for emergency response collaborations with UOC in rescue operations.

Chris Dykes, Michele Torlutter and their amazing Team rallied friends and family and raised a substantial amount of money for exceptional gifts which they have donated towards the Christmas celebrations. Each gift they specially packed to the particular request of each child. The children aged 10 and older also received a stationary set including a novel, and some children received schoolbags. A collection of large stuffed animals were also given as a ‘welcoming committee’ for all new children that will be safeguarded in the future. All this made possible by the kind-hearted contribution of Chris Dykes, Michele Torlutter and their amazing Team including Karl Storz Inland and The Exploration Society of Southern Africa (ESSA).

Families enjoyed a relaxed picnic, while the children unwrapped special gifts tailored to their needs. The teens received personalized Bibles with handwritten messages, a thoughtful gesture to nurture their emotional and spiritual growth.

In a deeply moving moment, the children presented Wayne with a unique gift: a canvas adorned with their colorful footprints, symbolizing their journey walking in his footsteps and expressing gratitude for the life-changing protection he has provided.

"This moment humbles me, and words fail me, but it is with immense joy that I look at you now, thriving, smiling, and safe. Thank you for the most beautiful and significant gift. It serves to fuel me on, even stronger, to work harder to safeguard more children," Wayne responded, his voice filled with emotion.

This event echoes UOC's broader outreach in Villieria, including trauma support groups and rescue interventions with local authorities like SAPS , ensuring ongoing safety nets for children escaping abuse and trafficking.

Gift Sponsors for Villieria: Pillars of Generosity and Enduring Support

The Villieria festivities were enriched by dedicated sponsors, whose contributions reflected a pattern of heartfelt giving:

Chris Dykes and His Team: Once again stepped up, as detailed earlier, with their consistent fundraising and direct aid reinforcing UOC's efforts against human trafficking.
The Unchain Community Pledges: Individuals who pledged toward specific children, embodying grassroots generosity that has fuelled UOC's programs for years.
Pro Shield Guarding Services: A trusted partner organization supporting Unchain Our Children in operational activities and events.
Zulzi: Supplied sweet parcels, extending their history of nutritional support in UOC's anti-hunger initiatives.

Through these acts, sponsors and partners illustrate the power of collective compassion, especially during the holidays, to heal the wounds of poverty and isolation for children who deserve every chance to thrive.

In a season often marked by excess, UOC's celebrations remind us of the true essence of giving: transforming lives through sustained empathy and action. For more on UOC's vital work, visit www.unchainourchildren.org.za or follow them on https://www.facebook.com/UnchainOurChildren and Instagram.

Discover & Connect:

Friedland, Hart Solomon & Nicolson Attorneys: https://www.fhsn.co.za/

Zulzi: https://zulzi.com/welcome

Pro Shield Guarding Services: https://www.proshield.co.za/

Geseende Hande: https://geseendehande.co.za/

More Worship Church: https://www.facebook.com/moreworshipchurch/

Shekinah 911: https://www.facebook.com/shekinah911/

Support Unchain Our Children – Call Wayne: 072 364 8246

Report Child Abuse – Call UOC National Crisis Line: 067 323 /116