The blanket collection formed part of a Mandela Day initiative where Cape Point Partnership, Cape Town Tourism and the City of Cape Town urged Capetonians to open their hearts and donate new or secondhand blankets to those less fortunate during the cold winter months.
"As someone fortunate enough to be warm and dry in winter, I know that I am not alone in thinking of those who are less fortunate who battle the elements daily. It's a small token to give a blanket but we hope that it provides some comfort to these precious children," says Enver Duminy, CEO of Cape Town Tourism.
"We are delighted that Capetonians have heeded our call and have opened their hearts to those less privileged. We would like to encourage more companies in the private sector to support our communities in similar altruistic drives - the importance of looking after those in need is part of our everyday lives," says Brett Hendricks, Cape Point Partnership board member.
Councillor Grant Pascoe, Mayco member for Tourism Marketing and Events at the City of Cape Town added: "The City of Cape Town values the role that our tourism partners play in uplifting our communities. We continue to support worthy initiatives such as the Nelson Mandela Day blanket drive coordinated by the Cape Point Partnership in partnership with the City's Tourism Department and Cape Town Tourism. Such initiatives take us closer to being a responsible destination and our tourism vision for Cape Town."
The Red Hill Preschool, started in 2007 and headed by Principal Vuyiseka Lombo, caters for 30 children aged between two and six. They are provided with two meals a day sponsored by African Impact through their Sponsor a Child Initiative. Principal Sophia Dick runs the Children of Hope Educare Centre, which was founded in 2006 and is attended by 39 children ranging from three months to six years of age.
Each person who donated a blanket received a complimentary ticket on the Flying Dutchman Funicular, courtesy of Cape Point Partnership. Built in 1969, the funicular is a fun way for visitors to travel from the lower station at the Cape Point car park to the old lighthouse while enjoying exceptional panoramic views.
