SINCE December 2007 Franschhoek has participated in the StreetSmart SA initiative, which aims to raise funds for street children and children in need.
Participating restaurants place specially marked table cards on their dining tables for patrons to peruse and should they wish to donate, R5 is added to their bill. In doing so, the Franschhoek restaurants have collectively managed to raise over R500 000 to date, and all funds raised are donated to a nominated beneficiary.
At an event held at Solms Delta on 13 December, StreetSmart SA handed over a cheque to the value of R300 000 to Youth Empowerment Action (YEA), the nominated beneficiary and Franschhoek’s only NGO to work with street children.
YEA will use their generous donation towards employing a social worker, auxiliary social worker, street workers, life skills facilitation and transport costs.
Franschhoek is in the fortunate position where they do not have as many street children as other areas experience, and as such efforts are concentrated on preventative measures for the valley. As a major tourist destination, tourists are encouraged not to give money to street children.
Local StreetSmart SA supporters include Bread & Wine, Fyndraai at Solms Delta, French Connection, Haute Cabrière, Le Bon Vivant, Le Quartier Français, Monneaux, Reuben’s and The Grill Room.
