ALLUVIA’S ‘GIVE ME A CHANCE’ CHILDREN'S FOUNDATION

The 'Give Me a Chance' Children's foundation was started in October 2004 by Delarey and Sandie Brugman of Alluvia Specialist Winery and Guest House in an effort to make a tangible contribution to the future of a community. A community that can hopefully in years to come look back at this project as the turning point in their lives.

Ten learners from Kylemore Secondary were selected based on their academic and sporting abilities as well as attitude. According to principal De Vries, there has been an incredible transformation in these young beneficiaries and he applauded the learners for making the most of this incredible opportunity. The 'Give Me a Chance' Foundation works to help these children realise their dreams by raising funds for scholarship programmes as well as establishing a network of strong role models to mentor these children. Every cent received goes directly towards the children's school and hostel fees, school clothing, books and sport equipment. Not only do the learners receive the necessary support to achieve on academic and sport levels, but they also have the chance to fulfill previously unreachable dreams.

"Research has shown that the development of a child from underprivileged status into a commercially active individual results in the betterment of at least 12 other people from his or her community," says Brugman, who strongly believes that the future of any country depends on the holistic education of its youth. "People do not exist in isolation from their communities, which is why we decided to support the Kylemore community in the Banhoek Valley where we live. Although Kylemore has some of the poorest communities in our country, it is also home to a talented group of learners who dare to dream and are willing to work hard at achieving their goals".

The trust hosts an annual charity fundraising event at Alluvia Specialist Winery and Guest House in aid of the children. In addition to this, Alluvia recently launched a limited edition 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon under the 'Give Me a Chance' label to provide a further financial boost for the trust. All proceeds generated by the sale of this incredible vintage will be donated to the Foundation.

The 2005 'Give Me a Chance' Cabernet Sauvignon is available from Alluvia's Wine Tasting facility. For more information visit www.alluvia.co.za