Youth Camp in Paarl, Cape Town
Cedar sent some of their staff to assist with a youth camp in Paarl from 23-27 September 2024. About 120 youth attended the camp and shared about their troubled life in the Cape Flats area. The area is violence-ridden and prone to crime and gang fights. Various social ills hamper the well-being of learners and cause early school drop-out and a higher mortality rate than in other areas. The staff equipped the learners to make more informed decisions through a presentation on drug addiction and other dangers that young people are facing on a daily basis (just not to repeat social ills). Other team members shared their life stories and how they were helped. Learners came for help, sharing their problems, and guidance was provided accordingly. Holistic support was provided, and troubled youth could find forgiveness and peace through Christ. Many learners decided to recommit themselves to God, make better life choices, and focus on schoolwork. Some also shared that they would like to go back to their school and apologise to their principal and teachers for their behaviour. The camp was held with CYPSA and the Moreson branch of KwaSizabantu Mission.