Shoprite and Checkers will bring some much-needed festive cheer to almost 8 000 children and elderly people by hosting small celebrations at daycare centres, children’s homes and care facilities across the country.

Last week Shoprite surprised 150 learners from the VUSA Rugby & Learning Academy in Langa. Following their last rugby training session of the year, the group of 9-14 year olds discovered a team from Shoprite waiting for them with boerewors rolls, cold drinks as well as goodie bags containing cupcakes, shortbread biscuits, Christmas crackers, party hats and more.

“It was a wonderful surprise by Shoprite, and such a special way to end off a really tough year for our children,” commented Makabongwe Kahla, Vusa Academy’s head coach. 

The Vusa Rugby and Learning Academy promotes social upliftment among under-privileged children through sports and academics. Shoprite first partnered with Vusa in 2017, when the  finale of the annual Championship Boerewors competition took place in Langa, and it has been supporting the academy with daily meals for the learners ever since.

Young and old will be in for a surprise over the next four weeks, as Shoprite and Checkers continue to deliver food hampers, gifts and festive treats to vulnerable communities across South Africa - from Aliwal North to Chatsworth, Mohlakeng to Oudtshoorn and everywhere in between.