More than 200 runners took to the chilly streets of uMhlanga on Wednesday, 19 March, to participate in the Baby Home March. The event, which took place along the uMhlanga promenade, aimed to support a good cause, with runners donating toiletries and hygiene products to The Baby Home Durban North.
Led by local businesses Tiki Tonga Coffee Roasters, RE/MAX Panache and Dykes van Heerden Group (DVH KZN), the march also generated over R5000. RE/MAX Panache agent Dietlyn Bekker, said that Wednesday’s march was inspired by Human Rights Day. She said: “We decided on a theme for each week in March and since this week involved Human Rights Day, we felt that donating to a cause and giving back would be amazing if we could raise some awareness and funds. The Baby Home is very close to my heart and I always endeavour to support Jo (crisis parent of The Baby Home) and her team whenever possible as they truly do the most amazing work. I reached out to Jo and she was very happily on board.”
Bekker said there was a great turnout as a few items were donated by people on the morning of the event whilst some dropped off beforehand even though they weren’t participating in the run. Additionally, runners provided cash and zapper donations on the day and would give away socks to people in exchange for a donation. “Everyone enjoyed a great cup of coffee, good conversation, supported a great cause and most are sporting a new pair of socks,” Bekker said.
During the run, nappies, baby formula, toiletries, cereals, wet wipes, clothes and toys were donated. Bekker invited the public to join them on future Wednesdays and continue to contribute towards initiatives that improve the Durban North community.
Tiki Tonga owner, Dean Grove, said the Tiki Wednesday runs started out as 15 friends just looking for a great coffee spot after a run, and soon transformed into a weekly event. Grove said: “It’s become a weekly event where we give back to the community. Corporates have come into the mix with sponsored runs which cover the cost of coffee for runners, and many corporates have incorporated charity into their sponsorship.”
