Gift Moyo, [email protected]
BULAWAYO Mayor Councillor David Coltart on Thursday evening launched the Mayor’s Christmas Cheer Fund, calling on businesses and residents to support struggling orphanages and homes for the elderly ahead of the festive season.
The fund seeks to mobilise resources to assist vulnerable groups across the city, ensuring that they also share in the joy of Christmas.
Speaking at the official launch held at the City Hall Fountain yesterday evening, Clr Coltart said the city’s commitment to its most vulnerable residents should be reflected in practical support and sustained fundraising efforts.
“I believe that the heart of the city is most accurately reflected in how it treats its most vulnerable people, and to that extent, the Mayor’s Christmas Cheer Fund, I believe has to go from an afterthought, to something which becomes integral to the way that we run the city,” he said.
He expressed gratitude to those who attended the launch and appealed for more people and organisations to contribute towards the initiative.
“I’m very grateful for all those who have come this evening. I hope that when the images of this wonderful event go out, that people are encouraged to loosen their cheque books and contribute generously towards this fund,” said Clr Coltart.
Local entrepreneur and motivational speaker Mr Nkosana Mazibisa, who is a member of the fund’s board of trustees, urged residents to consider how they could help disadvantaged members of their communities enjoy the festive season.
“As we prepare to celebrate Christmas, let us ask ourselves what is it that we can do to make sure that the less fortunate people in our communities also get to enjoy the festive season. Let us channel funds towards skills development so that the less privileged are able to learn and one day provide for themselves,” he said.
The launch attracted business leaders, Government officials, local artists and other prospective donors, who were given an opportunity to pledge contributions towards the fund.
