“We have the most beautiful country in the world… but ssshhhhhhh….don’t tell the Americans.” So said Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu.
Last Wednesday at The Salesian Institute in Greenpoint I had the privilege of listening to this incredible man, who is so fantastically full of hope for our future, talking about how we need to focus on the positive things going on around us. He was specifically speaking to the media when he urged us not to make violence or crime our headline news, but rather to focus on something positive. He was talking about StreetSmart SA, whose donations he personally handed over to selected beneficiaries that day.
StreetSmart SA is an organisation dedicated towards helping street children rebuild their lives through donations from restaurants in Cape Town and Franschhoek. Currently 45 restaurants have embraced StreetSmart’s vision to make a real difference to the lives of street children. Funds are raised by adding a R5 donation to each table’s bill at the participating restaurants. This donation is voluntary and diners are welcome to contribute more if they wish to.
Last Wednesday The Arch handed over R500 000, a R100 000 more than last year, bringing the total funds raised since its inception in 2005 to over R2 million. StreetSmart SA is registered as a Public Benefit Organisation as well as a Non Profit Organisation and ensures that every cent donated by diners goes towards social and educational upliftment projects for street children.
After hearing founder Margi Biggs speak very movingly about her organisation, I appeal to all the restaurant goers and owners out there to support this amazing scheme. Just look out for the yellow StreetSmart slips attached to your bill when you are in one of the 45 participating restaurants, and make sure the R5 is added to your bill, as it is not a compulsory donation.
I’d also like to see the number of restaurants taking part in this organisation doubled next year, so restaurant owners, if you want to make a difference please send your details by email to streetsmart@eqweb.co.za or call StreetSmart at Tel: 021 418 0621.
Let’s take a good man’s advice and focus on the good this festive season.