Reopening of Toy Library in Somerset West
Volunteers and sponsors gathered at the reopening of the Milkwood Toy Library & Academy Somerset West on Monday April 14. Credit: Barend Williams

Reopening of Toy Library in Somerset West
The Milkwood Toy Library & Academy reopened its doors at a new premises in Somerset West on Monday 14 April. The reopening was attended by library volunteers and sponsors from Canada. The organisation was established by Lize Marais in 2023; it was first housed in Gordon’s Bay before moving to Gants Centre and finally setting up shop at its new home at the Che Africa Hub. As part of the relaunch, Marais welcomed Christelle van Eeden, who donated more than 3 000 toys to the library. Van Eeden is originally from Cape Town, but emigrated to Canada with her husband more than 35 years ago. She was employed as a physiotherapist, collecting toys until her retirement in 2023. The donor met Marais online, who told her about the toy library. This inspired her to donate her collection to Milkwood, where children from across the basin will benefit from educational play. Van Eeden hopes the toys will be used to educate the little ones, aside from filling them with joy. Pictured at the relaunch is the proud Milkwood team who championed the successful relocation to Somerset West; (from left) Stephanus van Eeden, Chrisna Strauss, Jomanda Lochner, Lize Marais (founder of The Milkwood Toy Library & Academy), Lisa Swartz, Amanda Lochner, Welmien Foster and Christelle van Eeden. Credit: Barend Williams
Christelle van Eeden and Lize Marais
Christelle van Eeden and Lize Marais met in person for the first time on Monday 14 April. They have been corresponding via email since July 2023 to get the toys to the Helderberg because Van Eeden is based in Vancouver, Canada. The donation is a way for Van Eeden to remain close to her roots. Credit: Barend Williams
Amanda Lochner with puzzle picture.
As part of the Toy Library, children can take out puzzles. (Above) Amanda Lochner showing off one of the many puzzles that can be put together. Credit: Barend Williams
Jomanda Lochner in front books.
Jomanda Lochner in front of the many books that can be borrowed from The Toy Library, because it stocks books like a conventional library. Credit: Barend Williams

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