Your donations help charities through winter
The community is encouraged to support local charity organisations which are listed in the City Times Winter Wish List, compiled to help them receive donations for the winter time.
Here follows some charities’ feedback, to give readers insight into the difference much-needed donations make. (View the latest Winter Wish List here)
Director of Kids Haven, Moira Simpson, said: “The work we do is blessed — the evidence is in Kids Haven surviving and thriving into our 22nd year, amidst incredibly challenging times.
“We can thank our donors for this, from the smallest bag of potatoes to paying for school fees and therapy; you made it possible.”
“There is no possible way that Kids Haven would have survived this long without the help of the community in Benoni and further afield,” added fundraising co-ordinator of Kids Haven Susan Daly.
“This is no small undertaking, considering that there are 176 children living here and another 120 children and their families whom we support in the community.
“Kids Haven would like to thank everyone who helps us with donations and encourage them to continue to bring their goods to us or call us to collect them.”
Office co-ordinator of the Christian Social Council, Lizanne Strydom, emphasised: “Our organisation is challenged daily by people in need of food and clothes – especially in winter.”
Namaqua Dog and Donkey Foundation treasurer Sharon Roe said: “Our organisation needs help this winter, as many of the animals we assist in various locally disadvantaged communities sleep outside all year round.
“Many of the animals’ owners themselves are finding times financially difficult and battle to feed their families, let alone their animals, which is why we are also requesting non-perishable food items, as we believe that in assisting the owners, their animals will benefit as well.”
She added that they received a gratifying response last year with donations, which made a difference.
“Donations at any time of the year are essential to help us continue the work we do – sterilising, vaccinating, de-worming and medical care of the animals we help in the disadvantaged communities we serve.”
Home-Start’s trained volunteers offer emotional support, friendship and practical guidance to struggling families.
National director Erica Strydom said: “For many of our families, winter can be a very difficult time, as they battle to keep their little ones’ tummies full or bodies warm.”
