Modderfontein residents donate over 2 000 blankets to 51 animal shelters

Through an annual blanket drive, a group of Modderfontein residents and volunteers donated more than 2 000 blankets to 51 animal shelters this year.

According to Modderfontein resident Kimbal Mare, the initiative to help animals in need began several years ago.

“In 2019, my daughter Bailey and I handed out 390 blankets to assist shelters across Gauteng,” said Kimbal.

“I’m a director of The Dachshund Haven, a breed-specific rescue for Dachshunds, and I’ve worked closely with many shelters over the years. I understand how desperate these rescue organisations are for blankets, food and general funding, so I decided to support my fellow animal welfare colleagues.”

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Over the years, the blanket drive has expanded significantly.

“This is the third year that I’ve roped in volunteers from the Modderfontein Animal Rescue Group, which I started a few years ago. They help prepare and deliver the blankets to local shelters,” she explained.

She added that two courier companies have come on board to help ensure the blankets reach remote shelters across the country.

“CHF Cargo Handled Fast not only helps with deliveries but also makes a donation each year, while Stellar Trans ensures deliveries reach far-flung shelters, expanding our reach,” she said.

This year, the group also made use of Pudo lockers to reach towns such as Mahikeng, Vredendal, and Zeerust.

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“We’ve had incredible donors this year, including an angel family who wishes to remain anonymous. Their selfless support helped us exceed our goals,” Kimbal said.

“Because of their donations, we’ve delivered blankets to 51 shelters — a total of 2 425 fleece blankets so far.”
She added that the number is expected to climb before the end of June.