Ford Africa and Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund deliver 300 bears to young hospital patients
Handmade bears crafted by motor company staff bring comfort and smiles to children receiving treatment at a Johannesburg hospital.
The Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund and Ford Motor Company Africa joined forces to hand over 300 handmade bears to young patients at the Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital on September 9.
The Mandela Bear Magic handover provided comfort, companionship and joy to children undergoing treatment at the facility. Ford Motor Company Africa employees made the bears as part of the fund’s Mandelathon campaign, which honours Nelson Mandela’s legacy through practical action for children.
Read more: Nelson Mandela Foundation launches sporting series inspired by Madiba’s legacy
Ford Motor Company Africa president Neale Hill said he and his team were delighted to deliver the bears made by staff in Pretoria and Port Elizabeth. “Today is about giving back to children who are in an unfortunate situation,” said Hill.
“Being here means so much to us because, as a company, we’re about giving back to communities and those who are less fortunate.”
Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund events and sponsorship specialist Mpho Mokoena reflected on the partnership with the motor company.
“The partnership began two years ago, when they donated two vehicles to us for projects we run across the country, including the children’s hospital,” said Mokoena.
Also read: New children’s amphitheatre takes root at the National Children’s Theatre
“As part of our 67 minutes for Mandela Day, we formed a campaign called 67 Days, which includes acts of service. Today falls within that initiative, and we hope the bears brighten the children’s days.”
CEO of the Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital Nonkululeko Boikhutso said it was an exciting day for the facility. “Our children love toys because they remind them that they’re children, even though they’re sick,” said Boikhutso.
“This gesture speaks to the partnership we’re building, but it also reminds us that people are thinking of our children while they are away from their homes and families.”
Boikhutso added that the ongoing relationship meant a great deal to the institution, noting that the two donated vehicles continue to transport patients from far-flung areas to access treatment.
Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates!
