Operation Antifreeze kicks off annual blanket drive
Donations can be dropped off at 41 Trig Road, Pomona.
As winter’s chill begins to settle in, a heartwarming initiative is once again reaching out to bring comfort and warmth to more than 800 underprivileged children across the East Rand.
Operation Antifreeze has launched its annual blanket drive, aiming to ensure that every child faces the colder months with dignity, warmth and safety.
Project coordinator Patrick Thom said the organisation has been distributing blankets and food parcels to children at 11 schools across the East Rand, including Kempton Park.
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“The blanket drive is a call to the community to step forward and make a difference,” said Thom.
“Donations of blankets, as well as financial contributions to help procure these essential items, are urgently needed.
“Beyond providing warmth, each blanket is a symbol of our community’s care and compassion for its most vulnerable members.”
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Thom added that the winter season is especially difficult for families already struggling to meet basic needs.
“Through this blanket drive, we hope to alleviate some of that burden and let these children know they’re not alone,” he said.
“With your support, not only will they receive blankets, but food parcels as well.”
This year’s campaign comes at a time when more families are finding it hard to make ends meet, highlighting the urgent need for community-driven support.
What began in 2003 as a small effort supporting just 17 children in Kempton Park’s CBD has grown into a beacon of hope, reaching hundreds of children each year and expanding in both scale and impact.
Blanket and food parcel distributions will take place before schools close for the winter holidays, ensuring the children are well-prepared for the cold months ahead.
For more information or to get involved, visit www.operationantifreeze.org.za or contact 072 959 7242 or 011 979 5003.
Donations may be dropped off at 41 Trig Road, Pomona
