While the South African Weather Services has predicted low rainfall and above-normal temperatures across the country this winter, many people will still face a brutal few months out in the cold.
Inadequate living conditions, houses that are ill-equipped to keep the elements out, and a lack of access to blankets, warm clothing, and nutritious meals are some of the major challenges facing those living in Johannesburg’s Alexandra Township.
According to Tsholofelo Mabeleng, who is a social worker at Rays of Hope, the community of Alexandra would benefit greatly from not only donations, but a show of humanity and care from their fellow South Africans. “It fosters a sense of solidarity and support within the community, showing that people care about each other’s welfare, especially during challenging times like winter.”
Drive to #WarmUpAlex
In efforts to provide relief to those who need it most Rays of Hope, a non-profit organisation based in Alexandra introduced the #WarmUpAlex initiative in 2020, calling for donations of blankets, hats, jerseys, jackets, scarves, gloves and non-perishable food items to help people stay warm and adequately nourished.
The drive has been successful in past years with generous donations from businesses, partner organisations and individuals allowing Rays of Hope to assist almost 2,500 Alex residents in 2021. There were also 23 NGOs who agreed to partner with Rays of Hope to assist those in need in whatever way they could in the same year.
“The #WarmUpAlex initiative is crucial for the community of Alexandra, because it addresses a basic need: warmth during winter,” says Mabeleng. “By providing blankets, socks, gloves, and Vicks, it not only ensures physical comfort but also promotes health and well-being, especially for families struggling financially. I have witnessed this campaign spark hope and warmth in our beneficiaries.”
The NGO is calling for businesses, fellow non-profits and the public to assist with donations of blankets and warm clothes that are in good condition, as well as over-the-counter items to assist with colds and flus, such as menthol rubs, lozenges, and hot water bottles.
Donations can be collected and taken to the following drop-off locations:
- Rays of Hope Sandton Office – Rosebank Union Church, cnr William Nicol Dr & St Andrews Rd, Hurlingham, Sandton
- Rays of Hope Alex office – 2 Lupin Str, Marlboro Gardens
- And all Gautrain Stations
This year Rays of Hope has also partnered with the 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela Day initiative to bring even more warmth to the people of Alex. Carolyn Steyn, founder of the initiative, in collaboration with KNITWITS 4 THE NEEDY will hand over 80 blankets to Rays of Hope beneficiaries at a ceremony taking place on 26April 2024 at the Rosebank Union Church, with Rays of Hope CEO, Muziwethu Zwane, and other teams on the ground also in attendance.
For more information, interested individuals, businesses and organisations looking to assist can contact Nhlanhla Mchunu (Events and marketing coordinator) at nhlanhla@raysofhope.co.za.
