Each child was asked to write a letter sharing their Christmas wish and Cape Point saw to it that their wishes were granted.

Wishes, donated to the kids by Pick 'n Pay staff, PUMA South Africa and Cape Point, included soccer boots, soccer balls, sneakers, clothing and toys.

“Our annual Christmas party with HOKISA is the highlight of our calendar and leaves us in awe of people across the globe dedicating their lives to others in need. It has been moving to have such generous contributions from the staff of Pick 'n Pay and PUMA to team up with Cape Point in making the kids’ dreams come true this year. All involved parties have opened their hearts in the spirit of the festive season and granted, not just one, but up to three Christmas wishes a child. We are very thankful for their kindness in making this day come together for the children who would otherwise not receive Christmas presents. A big thank you as well to HG Travelling Services for transporting the kids and to SANParks for providing entry into the park,” said Cape Point marketing manager, Judiet Barnes.

The celebration included a ride up the Flying Dutchman funicular, built in 1996 and named after the Flying Dutchman ghost ship sighted by sailors over the past three-and-a-half centuries. The children had fun travelling from the lower station to the old lighthouse where they enjoyed exceptional panoramic views of their surroundings, before heading back down to the feast that awaited them at Two Oceans restaurant.

After celebrations, fantastic food and memorable singing by the restaurant staff, Father Christmas arrived to hand out the gifts to the excited kids.

“For Pick 'n Pay, giving back to communities is part of the DNA of our company. Helping the children of HOKISA have a wonderful Christmas, is one of the many ways we are giving back this festive season and our way of saying thank you to all our customers, who support and shop with us”, said Andre Nel, general manager of Sustainability at Pick 'n Pay.

HOKISA was founded in 2001 in the Masiphumelele informal settlement near Noordhoek, as a non-governmental organisation, to contribute in the fight against AIDS. HOKISA cares for more than 20 children living with, and affected by, HIV/Aids, full-time and in a family environment.

When family members or neighbours cannot look after a child, they are placed at the HOKISA Home by state authorities. Family members however are encouraged to keep in touch with the children wherever possible.

12-year-old Esethu Mahlumba shared her thoughts on the day: “It was a wonderful day and I had so much fun. Receiving the presents was the highlight of the day and I look forward to coming back to Cape Point again next year.”

For more information, visit www.capepoint.co.za or phone 021 780 9010/11. Alternatively, follow @CapePointSA on Twitter or visit the Facebook page.