For most children in our country, going to the movies is still a very special treat. The sound, the darkened theatre, and the smell of delicious popcorn all add to a special experience. Happy moments that remain with you long into your adult years.

For the eighteen little residents of Ilitha Labantwana, the 5th of December 2011 marked the very first visit to the movies for most of them. The movie was a special pre-screening of Ster Kinekor's blockbuster December holiday hit – Arthur Christmas. Of course the experience would not have been complete without popcorn and coke and a visit to the Spur for supper!

Although the Naartjie Love Foundation committee were excited to take the children to the movies and introduce them to the wondrous experience, they never dreamt of the profound effect the evening would have on each of them. "It was a very moving and rewarding evening for everyone involved. I am truly honoured to be part of such a fantastic team," said Esperanza Louw, Naartjie Love Foundation Chairlady.

Committee member Jane Moodie who spent the evening dishing out countless hugs and kisses and wiping snotty noses said "It was so special to see the magic that the children felt. They were all so well behaved and well mannered. I hope we can continue to give them magic moments, to inspire them and bring joy to their lives."

"I feel grateful to be part of a genuinely caring team", said Nicola Frazer, another loving committee member.

Other hands-on committee members Lee and Tessa dedicated themselves to making sure all the children were comfortable and happy and made countless toilet runs and even helped find a lost tooth that fell out on the night.

For these little people, we will never know how much the evening touched them or if they will remember the experience, but for everyone involved in bringing them to that point, to witness a rare spark of joy in their smiles or to hear their carefree laughter, there are no words.

A heartfelt thanks to our sponsors, Ster Kinekor and Sony Pictures.

A big thanks to Charlie from Coppermonkey and the fantastic staff at Spur, Somerset West, for all your help.



Of course Christmas wouldn't be Christmas without presents! Headed by Tessa, Naartjie staff got together to create their own version of Santa's shoebox gifts for all our kids at Ilitha Labantwana. So, along with practical items such as toiletries and art supplies, every child was given a special toy, specifically chosen with each child in mind. We applaud our staff for their dedication and support in helping make the Christmas of eighteen little people extra special.