As the cold winter days set in those living on the streets are among the hardest hit. Fortunately, thanks to a blanket drive launched by three local businesses, some may now sleep a little more warmly.
The Cape Town Central City Improvement District (CCID) has partnered with City Sightseeing (the “Red Bus” company) and Kamili Coffee for a blanket drive as part of a Mandela Day initiative.
Tara Gerardy-Bissolati, CCID social-development manager, said the initiative is the brainchild of the City Sightseeing. They invited the CCID to join the project.
“Madiba Day is a powerful reminder that small acts of kindness can bring lasting change, and we are proud to join forces with City Sightseeing on this initiative.”
Gerardy-Bissolati said they are relying on the generosity of the public to make the project a success.
“Any donation is welcome, even one blanket will make a difference. The blanket collection point is in the heart of the CBD, in our footprint, and the CCID’s social-development department works tirelessly to assist homeless individuals in our footprint. We are therefore able to distribute the blankets to those in need.”
She said that the blankets will be donated to the CCID’s partner organisations, The Haven Night Shelter WO Cape Town and Youth Solutions Africa.
Gerardy-Bissolati said the handover will take place on Monday 21 July.
“The Haven Night Shelter and Youth Solutions Africa are two valuable partner NGOs of the CCID’s social-development department. Through these two institutions we can expand our ability to offer transitional-housing options and shelter capacity for the homeless, providing crucial support as they work towards stable living conditions.”
She added that the blankets will be used at these institutions on CCID-funded beds.
“While this is mainly a blanket drive, if they (people) would like to donate other items, CCID Social Development will assist in their distribution to homeless clients on the streets of the CBD.”
When dropping a blanket patrons will get a free cup of coffee from Kamili Coffee.
“They can collect blankets among friends and family and do a collective drop-off, in that way spreading the Madiba love.”
Gerardy-Bissolati said Mandela Day provides a much-needed opportunity for people to step-up and help those in need.
“Issues surrounding homelessness are complex and everyone is a human being and deserves to be treated like they would like to be treated themselves – with kindness, compassion and respect. We are extremely grateful for the public’s generosity. This drive is a powerful reminder that small acts of kindness can bring lasting change.”
Blankets can be dropped off at City Sightseeing Stop 5, 81 Long Street, which is also home to the coffee shop.
People who would like to make a monetary donation to the CCID Show You Care fundraising arm can SMS “Give” to 38088. Each SMS costs R10, of which an average R8 goes to Show You Care.
