A wrapped Christmas gift, a hot meal, and a sweet pack will be received by every child at King’s Children’s Home in Glen Eden on Saturday.
The event is run by the Christian Revival Church’s “Defend the Fatherless” campaign, one of its most ambitious Christmas drives to date.
Pastor Steve Erasmus, who leads the initiative, says: “It’s about showing each child that they are seen, valued, and loved by God. We want them to know they belong.”
CRC Cares, the outreach arm of the church, is mobilising thousands of volunteers nationwide to bless children in more than 50 orphanages and care centres.
The campaign includes Christmas parties hosted at orphanages, encouraging members to drop off gifts and to serve through their time, talents, or financial support.
Erasmus said that the drive was about restoring dignity and building relationships.
“Children who have faced instability need more than presents, they need consistent love and care.
“Our mission goes beyond presents under a tree. We are defending the fatherless by actively demonstrating God’s love,” he said.
Many parents in the congregation are involving their own children, teaching them that Christmas is about giving rather than receiving.
The campaign’s holistic approach reflects CRC Cares’ broader work, which spans feeding schemes, creches, prison ministry, skills development, and safe homes.
At the heart of CRC Cares vision is Talitha Cumi, a house of safety that began in 2008, caring for 26 children. Today, it has grown into a village supporting children from infancy to 18 years old.
Erasmus said the “Defend the Fatherless” campaign is closely tied to this legacy, demonstrating sustained, Christ-centred care rather than a once-off seasonal gesture.
He said that community involvement through the leadership of local members and the generosity of East London families made it possible to host the event.
“Every child will receive a brand new, wrapped gift, a meal, and a sweet pack. Our CRC Kids Church will also minister to the children on the day, making it an unforgettable Christmas.”
While faith-based outreach alone cannot solve systemic issues such as poverty and access to education, initiatives like CRC Cares Christmas drive provide relief and happiness to children who might feel forgotten.
The campaign’s strength lies in its ability to mobilise communities around a shared vision of compassion. CRC Cares is determined to ensure that vulnerable children experience the warmth of Christmas.
“Our hope is to make this an unforgettable Christmas and share God’s unconditional love for every child,” Erasmus said.
