This Mandela Month, let your kindness bloom — not just in thought, but in action. From heartwarming causes to life-saving initiatives, discover Local Organisations You Can Support this Mandela Month right here in Pretoria. Your 67 minutes could mean a lifetime of change.
Local Organisations You Can Support this Mandela Month
Mandela Day is not just a celebration; it’s a call to action. Every year on July 18th, South Africans — and the world — honour Nelson Mandela’s legacy by dedicating at least 67 minutes to community service. It’s 67 minutes for the 67 years he fought for human rights. And you know what? You don’t need a huge budget or bucket loads of time to make a difference — just a willing heart and a little direction.
This year, we’ve scouted the vibrant NGO scene across Gauteng, especially Pretoria, and curated a list of charities and local organisations you can support this Mandela Month. Whether you're into donating food, sharing warmth with blankets, helping children, or even saving lives through organ and stem cell donation, there’s something here for everyone.
Help Anna Khasu Empowerment Centre: 67 Blankets for 67 Elders
In Protea Glen, Gauteng, the Anna Khasu Empowerment Centre is reaching out to the community to donate 67 blankets for 67 senior citizens in the Naledi area. Each blanket is more than just a source of warmth — it’s a message of love and recognition. Whether you organise a blanket drive, drop off a personal donation, or help spread the word online, every contribution adds warmth to someone’s winter and honours the legacy of Ubuntu.
Support Kids Haven: Mandela Day Food Pyramid Drive
In Benoni, Kids Haven is building a pyramid — but not with bricks. Instead, they aim to stack their shelves with nourishing non-perishables like tinned tomatoes, lentils, pilchards, baked beans, and fruit spreads. Whether you’re a business, school, or family, you can make a difference by collecting and delivering these items to help fill their pantry. This drive supports both children and the wider community throughout the year, and it’s a joyful and practical way to engage others in meaningful giving.
Faith & Hope Foundation: Dignity for Ga-Rankuwa's Seniors
Faith & Hope Foundation, located in Ga-Rankuwa, is focused on feeding and comforting senior citizens during Mandela Month. You can help by donating food parcels or warm blankets, or even volunteering your time to distribute goods. It's a heartwarming initiative that ensures our elders receive the attention and dignity they deserve, making them feel remembered, respected, and cared for during the colder season.
Dogtown SA: 67 Tins for Tails
Pretoria’s beloved Dogtown SA is appealing to all animal lovers to help feed their 100+ dogs by collecting and donating 67 tins of dog food this Mandela Day. With so many hungry bellies to fill, your donation can make mealtime a delight for these adorable canines. To contribute, email [email protected] to arrange a collection or delivery. Every tin counts, and your compassion will be rewarded with tail wags and grateful eyes.
Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund: Join the #Mandelathon
Want to make a big difference from the comfort of your home? Join the Mandela Day fundraising initiative #Mandelathon and donate R67, R670, R6,700 — or any amount you can — to support children across South Africa. The funds raised will support child protection programs, food security initiatives, and safe space creation. With 13 million children living in poverty and a national call to raise R1 million, every rand counts in this fight to give kids a better, safer, and more hopeful future.
Supapele NPC: Become an Organ Donor
If you're tight on cash but rich in heart, Supapele NPC offers a simple way to make a life-saving difference this Mandela Month — sign up as an organ donor. By visiting odf.org.za, you can complete the registration process in minutes and potentially save up to seven lives with your organs, and help 50 more with your tissue donations. Send a screengrab of your registration to Supapele and receive recognition on the Forgood platform. It’s a small action with an enormous impact.
Supapele NPC: Sign Up as a Blood Stem Cell Donor
Another incredible way to contribute without spending a cent is by registering as a blood stem cell donor with DKMS Africa. Just visit their website and request a free swab kit. Swab your cheeks, return the kit, and you’ll be added to a global register to potentially match with a patient in need. If matched, the donation process is simple and outpatient-based, giving someone a second chance at life through your generosity.
Hotel Hope Ministries: Help Orphaned Children in Melville
Hotel Hope Ministries, based in Melville, Gauteng, supports children through a network of family-style homes and charity shops. They’re currently in urgent need of clothing for children (especially boys) aged newborn to 14 years. They’re also accepting furniture, household décor, books, and garden tools to support operations and beautify their homes. Donations can be arranged by contacting them directly at [email protected]. Whether it’s a pair of shoes, a book, or a lawnmower, everything helps shape a loving home.
This Mandela Month, turn kindness into action. Whether you’re warming a senior citizen’s night, feeding a hungry pup, helping children grow, or literally giving someone a second chance at life, your 67 minutes matter. Pretoria is filled with passionate, purpose-driven organisations, and now is your chance to stand beside them. You don’t need fame or fortune to change lives. You just need a heart. So go on, make Madiba proud.
FAQs
1. Can I donate to these charities if I’m not in Pretoria?
Yes, many of these organisations accept donations online or offer delivery and collection services across South Africa.
2. What’s the best non-monetary way to help?
Registering as an organ or stem cell donor is impactful and costs nothing. You can also start donation drives in your community.
3. Do I have to donate exactly 67 items?
Not at all. The number 67 is symbolic. Whether you give one item or a hundred, every effort counts.
4. How do I know my donations reach the right place?
All organisations listed are verified and reputable. Contact them directly for peace of mind and instructions.
5. Are there volunteering options available?
Yes! Many organisations welcome on-site help. It’s best to reach out early as Mandela Month schedules fill up quickly.
6. Can I get a tax certificate for donations?
Some registered NPOs offer Section 18A certificates. Ask the organisation during your donation process.
7. Is it safe to donate online to these organisations?
Yes, as long as you’re using their official websites or verified contact information.
8. Are there child-friendly ways to get involved?
Absolutely. Kids can help sort donations, create thank-you cards, or join family drives.
9. How can businesses get involved?
Companies can sponsor items, run drives, offer delivery services, or match employee donations.
10. Can I feature these organisations on my blog or website?
Yes. Raising awareness is one of the most powerful contributions you can make.
