More than 1 000 residents of the Eikenhof Jackson Informal Settlement received much-needed support when The Flames of Hope Foundation hosted its annual Mandela Day Community Outreach.

The initiative benefited over 800 children and 200 adults through the distribution of warm meals, clothing, winter essentials and 500 packs of sanitary pads.

The Flames of Hope Foundation, a registered non-profit organisation committed to improving the lives of children, families and communities, organised the outreach as part of its ongoing mission to restore hope, preserve dignity and create opportunities for those in need.

“This outreach is about more than giving donations,” said a spokesperson for the Foundation. “It is about restoring dignity, building relationships and reminding people that they are valued. Mandela Day calls on everyone to make a difference, and we are grateful to everyone who answered that call.”

Throughout the day, volunteers served nourishing meals, distributed clothing to families, and handed out sweets and cookies to children.

The children also enjoyed entertainment and interactive activities, while volunteers engaged with families across the settlement.

A key focus of the outreach was promoting menstrual dignity. In partnership with The Ruby Relief Project, the foundation distributed 500 packs of sanitary pads to girls and women, helping to ensure they have access to essential hygiene products.

Winter relief also formed an important part of the programme. A total of 150 scarves were distributed to elderly women and single mothers to provide warmth during the cold season.

The Foundation also acknowledged the continued support of Cape Town donor Laurel Zurnamer, whose contribution of scarves, a shawl and beanie caps strengthened this year’s winter relief efforts.

The success of the outreach was made possible through strong partnerships with organisations including The Ruby Relief Project, Hands of Life SA (Eikenhof), Meals on Wheels Johannesburg and The Salvation Army South Rand Community Church.

Sponsors such as One Moment Foundation, Pauli’s Food Company, Volunteer Now NPO and Bet On Better NPO also played an important role in ensuring the event reached as many families as possible.

Several beauty pageant titleholders and ambassadors volunteered their time during the outreach, including Miss South Africa International 2026, Shaheena Flear, whose organisation, The Ruby Relief Project, partnered with the foundation to lead the sanitary pad drive.

Much of the day’s success was made possible by volunteers who worked tirelessly behind the scenes.

Some remained awake throughout the night preparing warm meals so that families could begin the day with a nourishing breakfast.

“Our partners, sponsors and volunteers showed that lasting change happens when people work together,” the foundation spokesperson said. “Every act of kindness, no matter how small, helps build stronger and more hopeful communities.”