AFTER collecting an impressive 1255 teddy bears last year, The MEG Foundation hopes to make an even bigger impact this festive season with the launch of their Christmas Hospital Teddy Drive.

The initiative launched on October 24, with the community invited to help bring comfort and Christmas joy to children facing illness and difficult circumstances. The drive will run until December 5, and the foundation is appealing to residents, businesses, schools, churches and community organisations to help collect teddy bears for children in need.

Therosha Govender, founder of The MEG Foundation, said last year’s collection exceeded expectations, surpassing the 1000 teddies target.

“For this year’s drive, we hope to build on that success and reach even more children,” said Govender.

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She said the initiative was established to bring comfort, joy and a sense of belonging to children who may spend Christmas in hospital or face difficult circumstances.

“A teddy bear cannot take away a child’s illness or pain, but it can offer comfort, companionship and a sense of security. It gives a child something familiar to hold close during difficult moments and something special to call their own,” she said.

Reflecting on last year’s drive, Govender said the excitement and smiles of the children who received teddy bears were unforgettable. “Their smiles shone through their pain, reminding us that even in the darkest moments, the simplest act of kindness can bring comfort, hope, and happiness.”

Both new and pre-loved teddy bears are welcome, provided used toys are clean, hygienic, in good condition and safe for children to cuddle. Businesses and organisations are also encouraged to host collection boxes.

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“We wanted to do something meaningful to remind these children that they are not forgotten,” said Govender.

Those wishing to donate teddy bears, arrange a collection or make a monetary contribution can contact The MEG Foundation directly. Financial contributions will help purchase additional teddy bears and support the foundation’s broader work assisting babies and children with serious illnesses.

Drop-off points have been set up in various areas of eThekwini. Malvern residents can drop off their donations at Bean Hunters Café on 17 Hopewell Road, and those in Queensburgh can go to the Engen Garage inside Woolworths foodstop on 125 Main Road.

Additional drop-off points include:

• Risecliff, Chatsworth: 27 Road 750, after 16:00. Contact 084 585 7121.
• Westcliff: 124 Camillus Avenue, between 08:00 and 17:00. Contact 067 258 6446.
• Amanzimtoti: The Surfing Bean Cafe, Toti Main Beach
• Newlands West: Hydrate Newlands, 784 Inanda Road

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