WATCH: Mandela Day magic: Volunteers bring light to the Cradle of Hope
Local businesses made their mark at the Cradle of Hope by giving their time and donations to support and uplift the community.
The Cradle of Hope (COH), a well-known nonprofit organisation, was supported by the community’s generosity this Mandela Day.
Janine Masters, a marketer at COH, said they had a busy day, with numerous volunteers and donors lending a hand to make a difference.
“They helped out with our various programmes, including feeding schemes, packing food parcels and preparing soil for our Harvest of Hope food garden.”
The organisation also received donations, including food, clothing, toys, and nappies.
Inteligro Krugersdorp assisted them with their sustainable food garden project that will benefit the community.
Natasha Labuschagne, Inteligro’s business assistant, said they donated their labour by working the soil, seedlings, and all necessary equipment.
“We wanted to give back to the community, and when I came across what the COH does, we decided this is who we want to support for this Mandela Day. We also plan to continue supporting them to help them become more sustainable,” Natasha said.
Local law firm JB Hugo & Cronje Inc also contributed their labour by unwrapping and packing thousands of baked bean cans.
Director at the firm, Shanette Jacobs, said nine of them decided to do this, as charity begins at home, being a Krugersdorp-based organisation.
“While we are not making a financial contribution on this occasion, we are honoured to support the charity through active volunteer work. We believe that giving our time and energy allows us to connect more personally with the cause and contribute meaningfully. Our team will assist in their baked bean store, helping to remove labels from donated tins distributed to those in need. We also acknowledge the importance of financial donations and are proud to complement those efforts with our hands-on support,” Shanette said.
@caxton.jhbwest #MandelaDay: Shanette Jacobs explains the importance of helping local NPO’s. #CaxonLocalMedia #MogaleCity #Fyp #KrugersdorpNews ♬ original sound – Caxton JHB West
They chose to support COH not only because of the profound and lasting impact they have on the lives of vulnerable individuals, particularly women and children.
“In a country where domestic violence remains a critical issue, their work is both necessary and inspiring. What sets this organisation apart is that they go beyond simply handing out food parcels – they invest in each person they help, equipping them with the tools and support needed to rebuild their lives and thrive.
As a law firm, they often work with individuals facing difficult circumstances, many victims of domestic violence and other vulnerabilities.
“Our role is usually to support them through legal channels, helping them navigate the justice system and reclaim their rights. But we also recognise that healing and empowerment extend beyond the courtroom.”
Volunteering at the COH offered them a different, more personal way to contribute by being present, offering their time, and supporting an organisation that walks alongside these individuals every step of the way.
“It’s a way for us to live out our values beyond our legal work and stand in solidarity with those who need it most in our community,” she added.
COH logistics facilitator Cathie Coetzee concluded that they are short-staffed, and the volunteers who helped made a real difference.
