Many donors are familiar with the dilemmas of giving. On one hand giving to those who are in need is essential to change their lives. On the other giving can cause dependency. We have over time evolved policies to enable giving in the most constructive way.
Donations for daily use
We accept clothing, linen, toiletries, household necessities (seldom given but very necessary), toilet paper, sanitary towels, new panties and bra’s, socks, raincoats, household cleaners, automatic machine washing powder, dish washing soap.
Gifts, Xmas Gifts, Easter eggs for the children –our policy is designed for dignity
We all love to give a child a present and watch the joy on the child’s face. At Ons Plek we want our children to enjoy receiving gifts. Like all families we have rules about gifts. During the year there are occasions when 2 “treats” are donated in close succession to each other. Christmas and Easter are peak giving times when everyone’s thoughts turn to the less fortunate. As in other households if too many relatives arrive with sweeties the wise parent will take the gifts to give out later. To avoid endless arguments we apply this practice at all times without exception.
Our concern always on the children’s growth in maturity our policy also is mindful that our children only have contact with those who can afford to give when a donor arrives. This re-enforces a belief that “we are poor; donors are rich; people give to us because we deserve it”. Before long the child who smiled in joy and gratitude is becoming demanding now rushing up to visitors to demand gifts.
We teach the attitude that others are there to help. But we are all responsible to make the best of our lives. Gifts are joys in our lives, expressions of others love and we all must express our appreciation not only in words but also in how we look after the gifts we received.
For some older children to have to receive and thank strangers many times underlines their feeling of shame at being in “a children’s home”. They want the gift, they know it comes from donors, they appreciate it but to have to personally receive the gift is a painful emotion for them.
Receiving all donations on their behalf helps our children receive gifts in a way which does not compromise their dignity and empowerment.
Rules for Giving
1. All gifts of any kind including sweets and chips are to be given to the Child Care Worker for distribution at the Xmas Party, outings, weekends, etc.
2. Girls will write personal thank-you letters. Donor’s names will be acknowledged in a newsletter.
3. Donors wanting to interact with the children hand donations to staff and proceed to do the pre-arranged activity.
4. Donors adhere to volunteer rules for interacting.