300 smiles were widened at Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital after a bear donation
Ford Motor Company Africa employees made the 300 bears as part of the Fund's Mandelathon campaign.
Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital patients felt Mandela’s magic on September 9 when Ford Motor Company Africa donated 300 handmade bears.
The handmade bears were donated to provide comfort, companionship and joy during their stay.
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Ford Motor Company Africa employees made the bears as part of the fund’s Mandelathon campaign, honouring Nelson Mandela’s legacy through meaningful action for children.
Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital CEO Nonkululeko Boikhutso said it was an exciting and special day.
“Our children love toys because they remind them that they’re children even though they’re sick. Even though for us this gesture speaks to the partnership we’re building, it also reminds us at the hospital that people are thinking of our children who are away from their homes and families.”
Boikhutso added that the partnership meant a lot to the hospital.
The motor company donated two vehicles, which are used to transport patients who come from far and wide to get medical treatment and enable the mission of the hospital.
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Ford Motor Company Africa President Neale Hill said he and the team were elated to hand over the bears made by his teams in Pretoria and Gqeberha.
“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 Ford.
“The partnership began two years ago when they donated two cars to us for some of the projects we do around the country, which include the children’s hospital,” said Mokoena.
“As part of our 67 minutes for Mandela Day, we formed a campaign called 67 days, which includes acts of service, and today falls within that day; hence, we’re here today and hope the bears brighten the children’s days.”
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