Her majesty Queen 'Masenate Mohato Seeiso celebrated Christmas with children of Mants'ase children's home in Mohale's hoek on Wednesday.

As part of the celebration, Her Majesty presented a M5000 cheque, clothing, toys and shoes to 46 children, who stay at the home.

Speaking at the function, Her Majesty Queen 'Masenate said the day's event is aimed at rejoicing with the children at this festive time when other children would rejoice with their parents and receive gifts from them.

She said it is her wish as patron of the home to give the children gifts and support the home in all its activities and therefore, pledged further support for betterment of the children.

Her Majesty noted that some children at the home had been orphaned by HIV/AIDS, while others were abused, therefore appealing to the public to reognise existence of the pandemic and to stand against acts of violence in children so the children could 'grow up with good foundation.'

She wished them a merry Christmas and happy New Year.

On behalf of the beneficiaries, Miss Rets'elisitsoe Maqhoai thanked Her Majesty for dedicating her time to celebrate with them and presenting the gifts.

The Chairperson of the board, Dr Mohale Makhube appealed that activities intended to assist orphaned children should be included in the government's programmes.

He said the home is faced with a challenge of shortage of food and therefore appealed to government to support them and other care givers in villages.

Established in 1979 with the aim to provide a home for the destitute children, Mants'ase children's home caters for 46 children aged between two and 20.

As a way to do away with reliance in donations, the home has embarked on a poultry project to generate income that would be used for daily running of the home and salary payments of employees.

Source: LENA 19/12/2007