Foggy weather couldn’t dampen the spirits of the 10 000 participants who turned out for this year’s Blisters for Bread Charity Family Fun Walk at Green Point Common on Sunday 16 August.
Organised by the Peninsula School Feeding Association (PSFA) in association with Lucky Star, the event raised vital funds to support the organisation’s efforts to provide nutritious meals to thousands of vulnerable children across the Western Cape.
With this year’s event drawing a record 10 000 participants, PSFA director Petrina Pakoe says they are already looking ahead to next year, with plans to build on the success and reach even more supporters.
“The event is over but the support that we need is ongoing. We are grateful to everybody who came to support. Every entry feeds 23 children.”
She thanked participants and sponsors for their contribution, while appealing for continued support as preparations get underway for the next walk.
Thousands of walkers make their way along the Sea Point promenade as part of the Blisters for Bread walk. PHOTO: CINDY WAXA/CITY OF CAPE TOWN 
City’s litter mascot, Bingo, is flanked by from left; Alan Winde, Deputy Mayor Eddie Andrews, Geordin Hill-Lewis, Blisters for Bread fundraising manager Charles Grey, Western Cape Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport Ricardo Mackenzie and Western Cape Minister of Mobility Isaac Sileku. PHOTO: CINDY WAXA 
Singer Paxton was one of the entertainers after the walk. PHOTO: THULANI MAGAZI
Premier Alan Winde said the event was about more than bringing people together.
“I love attending each year because this is such an amazing cause and the community comes together to help our kids. You cannot expect to get a good school outcome if you don’t have something in your stomach.”
According to Winde, more than 500 000 learners get a school meal every day and the PSFA is one of those that help people get food in their stomach.
“People always say stomachs full, eyes closed. But I say stomachs full open brain,” said Winde.
Ricardo Mackenzie, Western Cape Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport, reminded participants that their involvement goes beyond the walk itself.
“Your entry and participation is what is giving thousands of children from this province a daily meal. This is not just about being active, it’s about supporting our communities in need.”
The BVP Social Group from Hanover Park joined the Blisters for Bread walk for the first time. Photo: Kaylynne Bantom 
Friends, Mirriam Mbethe, Nosiphiwo Peyi, Andiswa Tshalane and Albertina Mlenga travelled from Velddrif to attend the walk. Photo: Kaylynne Bantom 
Premier Alan Winde and Mayor Geordin Hill Lewis share a moment with some of the walkers at the start of this year’s Blisters for Bread walk. PHOTO: ANDRE ENGELBRECHT
Kareema Allie, a representative from the BVP social club in Hanover Park, said this was their first year participating and it won’t be their last.
Bernadette Solomon from Mitchells Plain said she participates every year as a way of giving back during her birthday month.
Albertina Mlenga said she and her three friends travelled from Velddrif to support this “worthy cause.”
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