Kwa-Thema – Children gathered on a chilly day at The Salvation Army church to indulge in the warmth of togetherness united by a movie day on July 6.
The day’s theme was cosy pyjamas and a blanket to enjoy the experience fully. Thandazile Pila said the day was memorable for all.
“The aim was to give children an experience they will never forget. Many children have never been to the cinema because they are expensive these days.
“We decided to bring the cinema to the kids and youth to provide a joyful experience and a feel of something they have never done before. This provided at an affordable price and a way of raising funds for the church,” said Pila.
Pila mentioned that the church needs many things, such as heaters for cold days, windows, and chairs, and every penny made through the fundraising will go towards that.
Pila also said the aim was to make the experience as it is in the cinema. The children received treat packages that included popcorn, a drink and a light snack. Pila said all the movies the children watched were religion-based and child-friendly.
“After each movie, we held the best movie review contest to make the experience extra fun for the kids. This was also a fun and educational way of making them understand the movies better. The best reviewer received a prize. And at the end of the day, the children received a party pack full of goodies to take home,” added Pila.
Pila extended gratitude to Ward Clr Thulani Simelane, whom she said contributed immensely to their vision.
“Our ward councillor has been active in our church and always made it a point to attend to our needs. He contributed to the success of our movie day because he understood what we asked of him.
“He got us a popcorn machine, posted our flies all around the township, and got us a security company to do frequent rounds near the church to prevent criminal activities from happening during our movie experience.
“He made it a point that the day goes as planned, and for that, we are thankful,” she said.
Pila said they are thankful for the parents who brought their children to the movie extravaganza.
“It was not only an experience for the children but for us, too,” said Pila.
