‘Arrested’ for a cause: Local vet brings loads of Easter egg-citement

From arrests to real impact, Craig View Veterinary Clinic’s Easter drive has brought in thousands of egg boxes for children and elderly residents in need.

April 16, 2026

Fanie Mthupha 2 minutes read

a man with a selection of Easter egg boxes — Dr Clifford Bull smiling with a selection of the donated Easter egg boxes at his practice, following this year’s successful charity drive.

What started as a simple idea rooted in compassion has grown into one of the city’s most heartwarming annual traditions.

The Craig View Veterinary Clinic in Atlasville has once again captured the community’s imagination and generosity through its Easter Egg Charity Drive.

This year, the initiative reached new heights, collecting 6121 Easter egg boxes for children and elderly residents in need.

But it wasn’t just the number of donations that stood out; it was the creativity behind how they were collected.

Bailed out with Easter eggs
In a bold twist, this year’s campaign introduced a playful ‘arrest’ theme, with well-known local business owners and a councillor ‘taken into custody’. Their release depended on friends and supporters paying ‘bail’ in Easter egg boxes.

a group of people dressed in yellow and blue t-shirts, and holding Easter egg boxes — Dr Clifford Bull, together with staff from Hertz Care Rental, during the donation of boxes of Easter eggs as part of the annual charity drive.

Some participants were ‘arrested’ at their workplaces, while others handed themselves in. They were even briefly held in a real police cell to add authenticity.

Those who took part included Jen Dale (Studio 310 Hair Salon), Dalene Walters (Bobs & Bee Hives), Sammy Lea (Intradermal Cosmetics & Lashes), and DA councillor Mary Goby, all embracing the initiative with enthusiasm.

a woman and three men holding Easter egg boxes outside building — Sr Hannah Deetlefs and Dr Ross Schwartz hand over Easter eggs to the DA Clr Kade Guerreiro and Alfred Machaya for distribution to children and elderly people in need.

Legal support from a Benoni law firm ensured the process remained light-hearted and organised, while social media buzz helped drive donations.

A vision rooted in hope
Founded in 2018 by Dr Clifford Bull, the initiative was inspired by a desire to ensure that those less fortunate could experience the joy of Easter. What began with 700 boxes has grown into a widely supported annual effort, drawing in businesses, schools, sports clubs and families.

Delivering joy where it’s needed most
The eggs were distributed to charities in some of the most impoverished areas of Ekurhuleni by Bull, his family and volunteers.

One particularly moving moment unfolded at a struggling local hospital, where the volunteers encountered someone dressed as the Easter Bunny visiting patients, but without any eggs to give. Thanks to the timing of the delivery, the team was able to step in and provide the treats, transforming the visit into a moment of genuine joy.

Looking ahead
Plans are already underway for next year’s ninth edition, with hopes to expand through earlier collections and more community involvement.

While the clinic cares for animals year-round, this initiative shows its compassion extends far beyond, bringing hope to the wider community.