Young Citizen of Year’s festival to help kids

THE Herald Citizen of The Year winner in the youth category is extending his giving spirit with a Christmas festival in aid of more than 50 children accommodated by his edu-care centre in Walmer.

In partnership with the new owners of The Joneses Family Caffé and Bistro in Walmer – well-known theatre couple Greg and Debbie Everard – Duwayne Putter, 23, is hosting a fundraiser Christmas Festival of Lights at the cafe, running from tonight until January 12, from 6 to 10pm.

Come Learn Edu-Centre is a non-profit organisation that provides life skills, education and aftercare to underprivileged children in Walmer Township.

“We also support the kids in terms of any social problems they experience at home, providing counseling,” Putter said.

The organisation also assists 40 families of four to five members with food parcels monthly.

“Three years ago I went into Walmer Township with my friend whose aunt had eight to nine kids to take care of on a domestic’s wage, which was a struggle. I realised poverty takes up a big part of Walmer Township and that’s what inspired me,” he said.

Putter runs the organisation while he works as a marketing manager for The Joneses, where he started off as a waiter, using money he got from tips to maintain the charity.

“It’s very inspiring to see how Duwayne supports these children and we feel very privileged that we are able to support this very worthy cause,” Debbie said.

The restaurant is at the Bloomingdales Lifestyle Centre at 145 Main Road, Walmer. Entry to the festival is R10. Inquiries: (041) 581-0235.