How you put the warmth back into winter

Your response of love and support to our Winter Warmth Drive this year meant that hot nutritious meals and a warm welcome brought much needed comfort to the lines of people who queued up at our churches and headquarters.

The distribution of clothes and blankets has also been a gratefully received extra. In the worst of Winter, these essential items offer not just physical warmth but also a sense of care and dignity to those who receive them.

Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this campaign. Your support and kindness continue to make a real difference, spreading warmth and light on even the darkest of winter days.

In addition to the wonderful generosity of individuals like you who support our work, Old Mutual South Africa also joined forces with us to bring winter relief.

Meet some of the real people who received help: For thin and gaunt 25 year old Nkalimeng* shivering in her thread-bare cardigan, a meal and a blanket made such a difference. She’s on medication for TB, and lives at Park Station.

Every day Goodman* makes his way to Johannesburg’s northern suburbs from a township far to the south going from door to door, appealing for whatever people are willing to give. He says, “You just know that this food has been made with love, and that the people who serve us really care! Perhaps I’ll also get a blanket and some clothes today?”

Robert’s* days are spent looking for piece work and begging for food. In his words: “I’m not lazy to work. Any job will be fine. Some people are generous, others shout and swear at you and chase you away. I’m very grateful for this hot meal, clothing and blanket today. All of us here are blessed.”

Happy* has a big smile as he shows off the clothes and blanket, he received. “Eish, I’m struggling. I was so hungry, thanks for the food. Can I get some more?” he humbly asked.

Jeffrey* (68) comes from KZN – he lost his home in the floods and came to Johannesburg to start again. “I work as a car guard and come to The Salvation Army for food. Today we got clothes and a blanket. I’m so happy.”

Precious* is a single mom. She proudly says, “I love my child and will do everything to protect her. Life is hard and there are days when I have no food, but I must feed my child first. Thank God for these kind people.”

Here at The Salvation Army, we thank God for the friendship and support of real people like you. People whose kind donations make such differences for others in need.

* Names changed to protect identities.