Easter outreach initiative aims to bring joy to 500 underprivileged children in Cape Town
Veranique Benji Williams will be hosting an Easter Egg drive
Image: Supplied
Veranique “Benji” Williams, founder of the Faith and Hope Missing Persons Unit, is preparing to host an Easter outreach initiative aimed at bringing joy and support to underprivileged children across Cape Town this weekend, with a target of reaching 500 children.
The drive, which will take place over the Easter period, will see teams visiting multiple communities identified by Williams as areas of deep need. The initiative includes the distribution of Easter treats, small gifts, and basic essentials, alongside efforts to provide emotional support to children in vulnerable environments.
Williams said the motivation behind the initiative comes from a deeply personal commitment to childhood dignity and inclusion.
“Some children don't even know what Easter is, they dont know what its like to go on an Easter egg hunt, they don't even know what a chocolate bunny is…I believe a child must feel good,” she said, reflecting on the uneven access to festive experiences. “Even if it is just a marshmallow, you must still give a child a smile.”
She emphasised that the project is not only about material items, but about emotional reassurance for children who often go without during festive periods. “The little things matter,” she said, adding that the aim is for every child to feel seen, valued, and cared for.
Williams described the philosophy behind her work as rooted in shared responsibility, saying she sees no separation between her own children and others in need.
“My child is your child, and your child is my child,” she said, underscoring the collective approach driving the initiative.
This year’s Easter drive will focus on reaching several communities across the Cape Flats, with planned stops including Lotus River, where she will be working with community organisers, as well as other areas where missing children cases have previously been reported.
Williams said these locations were chosen intentionally, as she wants to ensure that support reaches communities often marked by trauma and visibility gaps.
“I want to give there,” she said, referring to multiple affected areas. “Where children have gone missing, that’s where I want to go.”
She added that the initiative is part of a broader year-round effort, with similar outreach planned for Christmas and other key periods, depending on available donations and community support.
Williams acknowledged the ongoing challenge of limited resources, noting that much of the work is driven by small-scale contributions and volunteer effort. Despite this, she said the impact is visible in the reactions of children receiving support.
“The best part is seeing the child smile,” she said. “That child knows there is someone who cares.”
The Easter drive is expected to include food parcels, treats, clothing items where available, and psychosocial encouragement for children and families in attendance. Volunteers from local communities are also expected to assist with coordination and distribution efforts.
Williams said the goal remains simple: to ensure that children who might otherwise feel forgotten are given a moment of joy and recognition during the Easter weekend.