I was so glad to be involved with this initiative this year again, and on Thursday morning I joined the team from Steyn City and their sponsors, contractors, soccer legends, staffers, residents and community members to make sure that the eighth edition of its annual flagship CSI project, Delivering Happiness to Diepsloot, spread more joy than ever before!

Every year Steyn City creates over 12 000 parcels – comprising sweets, stationery, school bags and other treats – to be distributed amongst the primary schools at Diepsloot. The packages usually include an essential item that will make a major difference in the lives of the schoolchildren, too. For example, this year’s delivery includes schoolbags which include an integrated poncho; a clever device which will keep little ones dry as they walk to and from during inclement weather.

Last year, Steyn City embarked on a drive to provide every school child with school shoes as part of its #PledgeAPair campaign, along with blankets and nutritious foods, while other campaigns have seen community members urged to donate funds to purchase schoolbags, blankets, soccer balls and playground equipment.

All of this is made possible thanks to sponsors whose commitment and generosity ensure that Delivering Happiness to Diepsloot is a success. Auto & General is lending their support for the eighth consecutive year with a cash donation and 12 000 water bottles for the children.

Media partner The Star (which joined the initiative last year) has already helped to raise funds through its golf invitational. Stuttaford Van Lines once again joins the crew by providing essential transport to deliver the 12 000 bags to the community, while this year, Bidvest comes on board to sponsor the stationery items. Steyn City’s contractors and suppliers are also owed a ‘thank you’ for their donations. Further gratitude goes to the SAPS and JMPD, which play a significant role every year by enforcing road closures and providing police escorts.

The participation and support of celebrities is always a major factor in the day’s success, too. This year, Delivering Happiness to Diepsloot were joined by soccer players; Mark Williams, Brian Baloyi and Shaun Bartlett. Steyn City is also pleased to welcome the input of Steyn City resident and Dj, Malwela who is also making a guest appearance to entertain the children.

Giuseppe Plumari, CEO of Steyn City Properties, explains that the project was conceptualised as a way to celebrate the festive season with the children of Diepsloot, many of whose parents or caregivers work at Steyn City. “What better way to say thank you than by spoiling their children with goodies that range from essentials, which often place a strain on the pocket, to the fun extras that make this time of year so special,” he says.

It all adds up to one of the most highly anticipated events on the Steyn City calendar. “I believe that we have many reasons to feel proud of what we have created at our beautiful parkland residence – but this chance to bring a smile to a child and, even more importantly, to place opportunity in their hands by providing essential schoolbags, waterproof ponchos and stationery, is, without doubt, the most important,” he concludes.

Find out more about Steyn City and their initiatives, HERE…