Marriott brings happiness to children at Rock of Hope creche with year-end party

Pictured at the Rock of Hope Year End party are from left to right: Thobeka Sibiya (Marriott), Nokwanda Ngubane (little girl), Sbonga Khanyile (little boy) and Protus Zungu (Marriott) – as Santa

Christmas arrived early for more than 90 children from the Rock of Hope creche in Shongweni valley as Marriott staff hosted a fun-filled year-end celebration for the little ones on Thursday, 22 November.

This Christmas party has been a tradition for the Marriott since adopting the creche as a charitable beneficiary in 2009, and it’s a real highlight on the staff calendar.

“Witnessing the pure joy experienced by these children really makes us realise what is actually important at this time of year,” said Sally Anderson of Marriott. “We are so grateful that we can play some small part in bringing happiness to these young lives.”

The Rock of Hope creche caters for children, under the age of six, many of whom are from disadvantaged backgrounds, living in and around the Shongweni area. In addition to the year-end party, Marriott has assisted the creche by funding a building upgrade, as well as regular staff contributions every Friday which go towards purchasing general supplies. Marriott staff also visit the crèche monthly, providing fruit and cake to celebrate the children’s birthdays.

As the staff from Marriott approached the creche gates for the annual party, the excitement was evident with children running to greet them. This year, the children were delighted to welcome Father Christmas to the event and happily received the gifts and treats he shared with all of them. The young ones were entertained with bubbles, balls, song and dance, after which, children and teachers enjoyed a meal before saying goodbye to Father Christmas.

Theresa Maduna, principal of Rock of Hope, said the creche was so grateful for the ongoing contributions from Marriott and that this party was such a highlight for all: “The children look forward to this party for so long and it is so nice for us teachers to see their happy smiles. We are so thankful to Marriott for making this so special.”