The UMhlanga Women’s Association is calling on local businesses, community members, and corporates to donate blankets and sandwich items to be distributed to disadvantaged communities on Mandela Day in July.
The association aims to collect 500 blankets and 1,000 sandwiches for the homeless and vulnerable communities across the city. Those willing to donate sandwich items can bring ingredients like bread, cheese, margarine, chicken polony, lettuce, mayonnaise, tomatoes, and cucumber.
Chairperson of the association, Praneetha Aniruth, said: “We are also appealing to people to donate 67 minutes of their time to make the sandwiches on the day—these donations will provide immediate relief to individuals facing the harsh realities of poverty. A warm blanket offers comfort and protection against the cold, especially for the elderly and vulnerable, while sandwiches provide a much-needed meal to those who may not have access to food.”
The founder further said that the association aims to provide comfort, dignity, and hope for those struggling with food insecurity and inadequate shelter, as well as build a sense of community and solidarity among all those who can contribute.
Aniruth also expressed gratitude for the support they have received so far. “We have been incredibly encouraged by the support we have received so far.
Park Square, their tenants, other local businesses, community leaders, and individuals have come forward to contribute—It’s heartening to see the community come together, especially during a time of national reflection like Mandela Day, to contribute and make a meaningful difference,” she said.
Distribution will be coordinated through the association’s community kitchen, and the items will be delivered to areas such as Inanda, Phoenix, KwaMashu, Tongaat, and Verulam.
