Christmas magic rolls into Vioolsdrift as SAPS ‘Mall on Wheels’ brings joy to schoolchildren

CHRISTMAS arrived early for dozens of children in the remote border town of Vioolsdrift in the Northern Cape, where a travelling “Mall on Wheels” transformed a primary school into a festive wonderland – complete with toys, competitions and even fresh holiday haircuts.

What began as a simple idea from SAPS chaplain Marsha Baard of Springbok’s Employee Health and Wellness (EHW) unit became a day of pure delight for 90 learners at VGK Primary School. By the time the doors opened, classrooms had been turned into pop-up shops draped in tinsel and packed with gifts, drawing gasps from parents and children who stepped inside to find a world remade for them.

Police officers, parents, and pupils shared in the excitement as the celebration unfolded – a rare moment of collective joy in a small community where resources are often stretched thin. Northern Cape police spokesperson Captain Ivan Magerman, who attended the event on behalf of the Namakwa district commissioner, Brigadier Schalk Andrews, said the turnout and enthusiasm captured the essence of the festive season, reflected in the children’s joy and the community spirit on display.

After Chaplain Baard opened the day and principal Daniels welcomed guests, a line-up of speakers – including Edwina Cornelisen from the Thutuzela Care Centre, Captain Hanlie Cloete (EHW), and Constable Joseph from Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) – highlighted the importance of protecting and uplifting young people.

But for the children, the highlight was unmistakable: a chance to “shop” for Christmas gifts for themselves and their families. Laughter and chatter echoed down the corridors as young shoppers moved from table to table, proudly selecting toys, treats and small surprises.

Adding to the festivities, VENT Barbershop owner Virgill Cloete offered complimentary Christmas haircuts – sending boys back to class with neat holiday trims and even bigger smiles. Competitions throughout the day kept spirits high as learners walked away clutching prizes and bulging shopping bags.

By midday, the sense of community warmth was unmistakable. Parents mingled with SAPS members, neighbours posed for pictures, and children compared their treasures with the wide-eyed excitement only Christmas can spark.

Brigadier Andrews extended his appreciation to everyone who made the event possible, noting that sponsors’ generosity ensured “everything was sold out during the Black Tuesday Sale” and praising the Namakwa SAPS team “for operationalising this super initiative”.

As the celebrations drew to a close, Chaplain Baard offered the day’s only formal message – one that underscored the spirit behind the Mall on Wheels: “Jesus is our Christmas gift from God. Let's make space for Him in our hearts and homes this holiday.”

For Vioolsdrift’s children, that message arrived wrapped in joy, community and a Christmas they will not soon forget.