As South Africans prepare to commemorate Nelson Mandela Day this year, the Mdzananda Animal Clinic and Shelter in Khayelitsha is inviting the community to make a palpable difference in the lives of local dogs, Cape {town} Etc reports.
Picture: Supplied
On 18 July, individuals, families, and corporate groups can dedicate 67 minutes to acts of kindness, embodying the ethos of Mandela’s legacy through tangible support for animals in need.
This year, Mdzananda, in collaboration with FOUR PAWS South Africa, will be distributing 67 kennels and over 670 care packs to dogs in the community who have been waiting for shelter throughout the cold winter months.
These canines, many of whom have been on the waiting list for a donated kennel for months, will finally receive a gift of warmth, protection, and comfort.
‘Many of these dogs have been on our waiting list for months to receive a donated kennel. This Mandela Day, they will finally receive the gift of warmth, protection and comfort,’ remarks Marcelle du Plessis, Fundraising and Communications Executive at Mdzananda Animal Clinic and Shelter.
The initiative not only strives to provide immediate relief but also serves as a poignant reminder of the impact that collective compassion can have when turned into action.
Fiona Miles, the Director at FOUR PAWS South Africa, shares her perspective: ‘This campaign is a powerful reminder of what we can achieve when compassion turns into action. Together with our supporters and partners, we have not only reached our goal but gone beyond it, delivering meaningful, lasting change for dogs who need it most. This is the spirit of Mandela Day brought to life,’
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In a remarkable twist, an additional 67 kennels sponsored by the Signature of Hope Foundation will bring the total number of kennels distributed this Mandela Day to an impressive 134.
Craig Featherby, Trustee of the Signature of Hope, expressed pride in contributing to such a noble cause: ‘We are proud that, through Signature of Hope, we can help provide safe shelter for animals in the care of this remarkable organisation,’
The impact of the Mdzananda’s efforts will extend beyond the physical provision of shelters. The organisation is hosting Open Days on 17 and 18 July, offering guided tours of the clinic and shelter.
This initiative aims to showcase the dedication and resilience of the Khayelitsha community while encouraging more visitors to witness the compassion that drives the work of Mdzananda.
‘We know some people feel hesitant about visiting Khayelitsha, but we would love to welcome them to experience our work firsthand this Mandela Day. It is an opportunity to see the difference that compassion can make every single day,’ encourages du Plessis.
Visitors interested in participating can book their tours by emailing Kelly at [email protected].
Article shared by Cape Etc
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