Sharing their Hearts of Gold: Kagiso Trust and the South African Local Government Association – Mandela Day
Kagiso Trust (KT, the Trust) in partnership with the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) spent Mandela Day at Takalani Home for people living with mental disabilities in Diepkloof, Soweto. Takalani provides care to 144 children with disabilities some of whom are orphaned and abandoned. The home has faced many challenges over the past two years and support is needed to keep home sustainable to provide much- needed care for the vulnerable citizens.
KT lives Mandela Day everyday through its development work and vision that aims to contribute towards a prosperous, peaceful, equitable and just society. The Trust’s programmes are all geared to making a positive change in society. The Trust is currently running the Heart of Gold campaign which urges all sectors to show their Hearts of Gold through acts of goodwill.
“Making South Africa a better country is not something anyone can do alone. When SALGA approached us to partner for this year’s Mandela Day, we appreciated it. We are strong believers in the strength of partnerships and working together for greater impact. As I stand here today and see so many of our colleagues who have given of their time to be here, I am humbled,” said Mankodi Moitse Chief Executive Officer of KT.
For the past nine years, SALGA has been doing its bit to share their Hearts of Gold through various initiatives and over 3000 people have benefited from these initiatives. “With an increase in unemployment, poverty, the widening gap between the haves and the have nots, youth being marginalised, women and children being victims of abuse, more collaborations and partnerships are needed to address these social challenges.” concluded Lance Joel SALGA Executive Manager: Office of the CEO.
The two organisations jointly raised R150 000 which was handed over by Ms Moitse and Mr Joel. The money will be used to purchase equipment and other items the Home is desperately in need of. Additionally KT and SALGA staff members made personal contributions which included sanitary towels, groceries, clothing, educational toys and books.