Sunday stroll in enchanting valley
Enjoy a guided 5.5km circular walk through the picturesque Devon Valley with tastings and treats along the way in aid of Froggies Aftercare in Devon Valley. The leisurely walk through the vineyards on Sunday, 29 October will start at 08h00 at the Devon Valley Hotel with stops at Kunjani Restaurant for a breakfast bite and glass of wine, JC le Roux for a glass of their popular sparkling wine and Devon Valley Hotel for a wrap-up burger and glass of wine.
Froggies Aftercare, founded in July 2021 by the community for the community, is making a markable difference in the lives of the children in the Devon Valley farming community. This non-profit organization based at Devon Valley Primary School currently provides educational support in a safe and nurturing environment to 45 learners between the ages of five and 10 years. The aftercare is run by a dedicated group of local facilitators who provides a hot meal, homework assistance, reading, math and computer tutoring. In addition, life skills programmes through sport and recreation as well as extensive volunteer involvement, allows these children to flourish and grow.
The Devon Valley Farms Association provided the initial seeding capital and renders ongoing support, while individual donations from the local Stellenbosch community and further afield enables Froggies Aftercare to keep flourishing. Apart from providing a space that is safe, loving and stimulating for the youth the team aims to support parents through outreach and parenting programmes.
Froggies Aftercare is completely dependent on donations and all funds are put towards supporting children emanating from challenging circumstances.
According to one of the founding members, Linda Macfarlane, the support in terms of the donation of toys, books, stationary, sporting and art equipment has been overwhelming. “We are ever so grateful for the amazing support we’ve received since we started this programme – not only in terms of donations, but also for the outreach support from other schools and organisations like Pret op die Plaas, Samaritan’s Feet, The Cape Leopard Trust, Stellenbosch Municipality Grant in Aid Fund and Stellenbosch Feeding in Action.
Froggies Aftercare is based at Devon Valley Primary School, which provides a sound infrastructure at minimum cost. Facilitators hale from the local community and are actively involved as role models in the lives of the children. Over the past two years, the team has revived the school library and launched various reading and math programmes as well as cycling and hip-hop lessons and holiday programmes.
“Froggies has had a markable impact on the lives of the children from the local community. Our facilitators are amazing – you feel the love and commitment at the school and the children are just so eager to learn. We know that with the necessary support, Froggies Aftercare can continue to assist these kids to become the best version of themselves,” concludes Linda.
Should you be interested in getting involved as a sponsor or volunteer visit www.froggiesaftercare.com or via e-mail at linda@froggiesaftercare.co.za.
The Devon Valley Vineyard Walk forms part of Garden Town Stellenbosch, where a tapestry of enjoyment awaits. Immerse yourself in horticultural wonders and floral artistry, embark on culinary journeys and invigorating hikes, and engage with the rock star Gardening Specialists, all against a captivating Stellenbosch backdrop. Unveil the secrets of microgreen cultivation and fungi marvels, indulge in wine tastings, unleash your creativity through painting and flower crown crafting, and enrich your knowledge with bonsai education and much more – all showcased in this year’s programme.
Tickets cost R250 are available online via www.bottelaryhillsconservancy.co.za or https://plankton.mobi/Events/EventBooking/bc15089e-a4ab-4459-8c30-0b8eb862965a