Capping off a long weekend of giving, the Moti Cares Foundation and its volunteers, in collaboration with local organisations, distributed over 2,000 blankets and 2,000 loaves of bread to vulnerable communities in Langlaagte and Vrededorp this year on Youth Day. This initiative makes a significant impact on the lives of many residents. This event forms part of a larger initiative that will see the group handing out a total of 20,000 blankets, as well as thousands of food parcels and sweet packets for children and families across Gauteng.
Moti Cares Foundation Inspires Change Through Action
“Youth Day reminds us of the importance of change through action, so it represented the perfect time to show up for those in need. Every year, we see the deep impact that even a simple gesture like a warm blanket or a loaf of bread can have on the life of another, and I’m grateful to the many volunteers who were willing to join us in lending a helping hand, and spreading hope and comfort.” ~ Zunaid Moti, investor, philanthropist, and founder of the Moti Cares Foundation
Community Handovers by Moti Cares Foundation
The Langlaagte and Vrededorp handovers took place in parks within residential areas served by the programme. Immediately after, volunteers also distributed blankets and bread to individuals experiencing homelessness in Mayfair, as well as to the Rahima Moosa Mother and Child Hospital in Coronationville.
Moti Cares Foundation’s Community Selection Process
The selection of Langlaagte and Vrededorp followed a month-long nomination period during which people submitted the names of their favourite communities and non-profit organisations on social media. The Foundation’s vetting team thoroughly reviewed the submissions and subsequently confirmed that non-profit organisations coordinated the handovers. As a result, donations were effectively channelled to ensure that they reached those most in need.
Moti Cares Foundation’s Ongoing Commitment
This year’s blanket drive is part of the Moti Cares Foundation’s ongoing work to support vulnerable communities across South Africa. Over the years, the Foundation has provided thousands of blankets and food parcels to those in need, with key moments including the large-scale distribution of over two million meals in response to the KwaZulu-Natal riots in 2021. Through these continued efforts, Moti Cares remains committed to bringing warmth, relief, and dignity to those who need it most.
Future Plans
On Monday, organisers made a donation following the launch event of the program at the Katlehong Art Centre on Sunday. During this event, they distributed 800 blankets, 600 loaves of bread, and packets of sweets for children to community members. As winter approaches its peak, the team will distribute the remaining 20,000 blankets over the next few weeks, starting with Soweto next weekend.
Moti Cares Foundation Addresses Growing Needs
“Every year, the need for this type of programme becomes clearer to us. Over the past few weeks, we’ve received countless messages from concerned residents sharing stories of fellow community members braving the cold nights with little more than a blanket and a t-shirt. Realities like these really drive home just how much need is out there,” said Zunaid Moti.
Moti Cares Foundation’s Call to Action
“With this in mind, I would encourage other business leaders to look into their hearts and to give whatever they can. Through collective effort and close cooperation, we can make a significant difference in the lives of those who deserve our compassion and care,” concludes Moti.
Making a Broader Impact
The Moti Cares Foundation goes beyond immediate relief; instead, it aims to promote long-term community resilience. Furthermore, by collaborating with local organisations and involving volunteers, the Foundation actively creates support networks that empower communities to tackle their challenges effectively. For instance, the Youth Day event not only provided essential supplies but also brought together residents, volunteers, and non-profits in a shared mission of care. This collective effort fosters a deeper sense of unity and encourages sustained community engagement.
How to Get Involved
For those inspired to contribute, the Moti Cares Foundation welcomes support in various forms. Individuals and businesses can donate resources, volunteer time, or nominate communities for future initiatives through the Foundation’s social media channels. “Every small act counts,” Moti emphasised. “Whether it’s a single blanket or a day of volunteering, together we can create a ripple effect of positive change.”
