South Africa's Zunaid Moti launches 2025 Winter Blanket Drive to aid vulnerable communities
South African businessman and philanthropist Zunaid Moti has launched his 2025 Winter Blanket Drive, aiming to distribute 20 000 blankets to vulnerable communities nationwide as freezing temperatures grip the country.
The campaign, led by Moti's humanitarian foundation Moti Cares, builds on the success of last year's initiative, which also saw 20000 blankets delivered to shelters, hospitals, and under-resourced communities during the harsh winter months.
Distribution will run from June through to the end of winter, with large-scale handovers planned to coincide with Youth Day (14 June), Mandela Day (18 July), and Women's Day (9 August). Moti and his family are expected to attend all three events in person, with additional unannounced visits planned at selected sites.
'Winter can be brutal for so many South Africans,' Moti said in a statement. "This drive is about providing warmth to those in need, and about showing people they're not alone, and that someone cares. With something as simple and essential as a blanket, we're not just covering people, we're comforting them too.'
Members of the public are invited to nominate communities and charities for inclusion in the drive by submitting stories via Moti's official social media channels. All submissions will be reviewed by the Moti Cares team to ensure donations reach credible organisations with proven local impact.
Moti Cares, which supports various humanitarian projects throughout the year, describes the winter campaign as one of its most impactful interventions. This year's effort aims not only to deliver essential aid but also to highlight the work of grassroots leaders and community volunteers.
'We want the public to be part of this movement, as local leaders often know exactly where these blankets need to go - which elderly residents are isolated, or families are struggling,' Moti explains.'Plus, there are so many unsung heroes in local communities. By opening up this process to others, we get to shine a light on those quietly and consistently doing the work on the ground and can help them expand their reach.'
'We want the public to help guide us to where these blankets are most needed,' Moti said, adding that local knowledge was vital in identifying isolated elderly residents or struggling families.
The drive, now a fixture in Moti's philanthropic calendar, underscores his stated mission of 'unity, compassion, and action' during one of the country's most challenging seasons.
Further information and nomination details are available on Zunaid Moti's official social media pages.
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