Nearly 700 blankets were collected during this year’s WarmFees West Rand charity event, held at Berlin Bear Restaurant in Ruimsig on July 18.

The annual event forms part of the Round Table’s national winter nights initiative in partnership with Martin Bester and Jacaranda FM.

Instead of paying an entrance fee, attendees were encouraged to donate blankets, non-perishable food, pet food or other essential items, with all donations benefiting local non-profit organisations, children’s homes, shelters and animal welfare organisations.

Round Table is a dynamic organisation for men aged 18 to 40, focused on community impact, personal growth, fellowship, and business collaboration. They are also family-oriented and committed to building better men and stronger communities.

According to Round Table Florida 21 chairperson Phillip van Wyk, who is also Past Round Table Gauteng Area chairperson, the event has become a flagship combining live entertainment with community giving.

Hosted by Round Table Northridge 117 this year, the event attracted about 650 people throughout the day.

Entertainment included performances by The Honeymooners, Lee Cole, the Martin Bester Band and DJ Kerry Ann. Guests also took a break to watch the Springboks’ match against Wales before festivities continued.

To raise additional funds, sponsors donated auction items including luxury watches, premium liquor hampers and a helicopter experience, with proceeds also going towards the project’s beneficiaries.

Phillip said the success of the event was made possible through the generosity of the public, sponsors, volunteers and entertainers.

“We were proud to support Round Table Northridge 117. The incredible community support, generous donations, and enthusiastic participation once again demonstrated the power of people coming together to make a meaningful difference. WarmFees continues to grow each year and remains one of the West Rand’s most recognised and successful winter charity initiatives,” Phillip said.