Santa’s little helper hard at work
WHILE we are not able to identify Santa, we can point you in the direction of one of his elves… and he lives in Durban.
Shiven Gopi, of Overport, has set up a (work)shop at his home where he collects and fixes previously loved toys to regift to children in need.
Earlier this month, he put out a call on social media asking for people to donate unused or unwanted toys that could use a little TLC or fixing.
With a background in electronics and engineering, he is putting his skills to good use, repairing the toys, which will be given to little ones at hospitals and children’s homes in Durban.
“I wanted to use my knowledge and skills to help make a difference,” Gopi said.
“You often see toys being thrown away because they don’t work anymore, but with a little bit of know-how, they can be given a new lease on life.”
He said toys brought joy to children but, during tough economic times, many people couldn’t afford to buy them and so children therefore had to go without.
“This is one way I can assist. This is why I decided that, using my skills, I can fix toys at my own cost and regift them to kids in need.
“At this time of year especially, we all want to spread cheer but it’s not always financially feasible to head to the shops and buy something new. By donating toys that can be repaired, we are all still spreading cheer.”
Gopi said sometimes an electronic toy, like a remote-controlled car, would not work because of a faulty motor or a broken switch.
“But these are things I can repair to get the toy to work again. Sometimes the toy needs new batteries and a bit of glue to work again.”
Since putting out a call on social media, the response has been amazing.
“This past week alone, I met some wonderful people who donated toys and I’ve started fixing them. They will soon go to new homes.”
Gopi said he would take unwanted, broken or unused toys.
“I am not looking for any specific toy or brand, just those that people think can be repaired. Soft toys are welcomed, as this project does not necessarily only focus on electronic ones.
“Hopefully, the project will grow and continue throughout the year.”
Gopi can be contacted at 082 580 9552.