Winter relief drive brings warmth to Oakmoor Avenue families
Thalukanyo Dza Vhathu NPO, in partnership with Revelation Praise Ministries, distributed warm clothing, meals, and toys to residents of Oakmoor Avenue in Thembisa. Over 1 000 people were served soup and bread, while children received essentials and free haircuts.
Thalukanyo Dza Vhathu NPO, in partnership with Revelation Praise Ministries, brought warmth and hope to families in Oakmoor Avenue settlement this winter.
On July 2, the church grounds became a place of giving as the organisations handed out essentials to the community.
The NPO donated 15 new polar fleece tops and 15 pairs of socks to children in need. The church assisted by distributing donated clothing for adults and children, as well as toys for the little ones.
Shoprite’s soup kitchen served warm soup and bread to more than 1 000 people, ensuring no one went hungry on the day.
Long-time partner McDonald Barber Hair Assistance offered free haircuts to 50 children.
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Nonhlanhla Maphangula, founder of Thalukanyo Dza Vhathu, said the support of various businesses and individuals in Thembisa made these donations possible.
“We reached out to stakeholders committed to community initiatives, including the mayor of Ekurhuleni, local businessmen Kenny Mametsa, Bafana Zemo, Mr Shabangu, Mr Mabuza, and North Brigadier Nkuna.
“Other supporters included organisations like YANA, Life4You Foundation, and Revelation Praise Ministries. Their generosity allowed us to collect polar fleece clothing, clothing, snacks and sweets for the children,” she said.
Planning and coordination for the drive took several weeks, with the team engaging donors well in advance to ensure the event’s success.
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“This drive was different because it brought together multiple services for the community,” Maphangula said.
“Besides distributing warm clothing, we worked with Shoprite’s mobile kitchen for meals and McDonald’s barbers for free haircuts, creating a festive and supportive atmosphere.”
The community welcomed the initiative with joy and gratitude. Parents expressed relief knowing their children would be warmer this winter, while the children were excited by the gifts and the day’s activities.
Thalukanyo Dza Vhathu NPO plans to continue with similar initiatives throughout winter, aiming to reach even more families in need.
“We hope to partner with bigger stakeholders to expand our impact and ensure no child in our community is left vulnerable to the cold,” added Maphangula.
