On Tuesday, 3 December 2024, the Sasfin Cape Town Asset Finance team stepped away from their desks to bring joy and connection to the 142 children and 14 staff members of the Durbanville Children’s Home, which has served vulnerable children for more than 140 years. The day was filled with fun, warmth, and meaningful interaction.
A Day of Connection and Celebration
The Sasfin team engaged with the children, creating a festive and joyful atmosphere. Hotdogs, cold drinks, and cupcakes—baked with care by the team—were served as part of a delicious lunch. Each child received a thoughtfully curated gift packet that included snacks such as chips, sweets, and chocolates, along with a special age-appropriate gift.
To make the experience even more personal, the gifts were tailored based on a list of each child’s favourite colours, animals, and aspirations. From fluffy toys for toddlers to Lego sets, soccer balls, and writing pads for older children, every detail was designed to make each child feel special and seen.
Moments to Remember
The event was filled with heartfelt moments that underscored the value of connection. Children proudly showed off their Lego creations, flexed their muscles, and ran across the grounds, blowing bubbles in the sunlight. Older children displayed touching care, ensuring the younger ones were fed and happy before turning to enjoy their own treats.
Sasfin Rental Finance Regional Manager, Gary Kalt, observed the children’s joy and gratitude, noting how, despite their circumstances, they radiated happiness. A particularly memorable moment for him was when a group of young boys proudly displayed their muscles and shared their Lego creations, demonstrating how much delight can come from simple acts of kindness.
For team member Catherine Swanevelder, the day offered a moment of profound reflection. She described the experience as a beautiful merging of two different worlds, where the team’s connection with the children highlighted how much they had to be grateful for. The few hours spent together were filled with genuine happiness, leaving a lasting impression on everyone involved.
A Lesson in Giving
The event left a lasting impact on the Sasfin team, inspiring a renewed commitment to giving back. Staff members expressed how the experience opened their eyes to the importance of community involvement beyond the holiday season.
Looking Ahead
This visit to Durbanville Children’s Home was more than a day of giving—it was a reminder of the power of personal connection and compassion. Moving forward, the Rental Finance team is committed to integrating more hands-on community initiatives, fostering deeper ties, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
As we reflect on this special day, we’re reminded of Nelson Mandela’s timeless words: “There can be no greater gift than that of giving one’s time and energy to help others without expecting anything in return.” Sasfin looks forward to continuing this journey of giving back, spreading joy, and building stronger communities, one initiative at a time.