Cowdray Park Foundation reaches out to elderly with winter donation drive

A youth-led community organisation from Cowdray Park suburb in Bulawayo is extending a helping hand to elderly residents at Entembeni Old People’s Home through a winter outreach programme aimed at providing warmth and comfort during the cold season.

The initiative, organised by the Cowdray Park Foundation, will see the donation of fleece blankets, socks, toiletries and other essential items collected from community members, supporters and well-wishers.

Founder Mongile Moyo (21) said the foundation was established to empower young people while addressing social challenges affecting the community.

“The Cowdray Park Foundation was inspired by a desire to create opportunities for young people, nurture talent and contribute to the upliftment of our community. We saw a need to address pressing social challenges such as drug and substance abuse, limited opportunities for youth, lack of empowerment initiatives and the need to support vulnerable groups such as the elderly,” she said.

The organisation was officially launched on 7 February this year with a modelling show that crowned the first Miss Cowdray Park Queen.

According to Moyo, the pageant was designed to inspire young women and encourage them to pursue their ambitions.

“The pageant was more than just a beauty competition. It was a platform designed to inspire young women and show them that regardless of their background, they can achieve their dreams.

“We wanted young people from Cowdray Park to see positive role models and believe that they can rise above challenges and become leaders in their communities,” she said.

Although much of the foundation’s work focuses on youth empowerment, Moyo said supporting senior citizens is equally important.

“The elderly should never be forgotten. They are the generation that raised and guided us. Winter can be particularly difficult for older people, so this outreach programme is our way of showing appreciation, compassion and support to those who have contributed so much to society,” she said.

The donation drive has been made possible through the efforts of volunteers, supporters and community members who have contributed both their time and resources.

Moyo hopes the initiative will inspire others to embrace a culture of giving.

“We hope this donation will bring comfort, warmth and encouragement to the residents of Entembeni Old People’s Home. More importantly, we hope it demonstrates that the younger generation cares and is willing to give back,” she said.

“We want to inspire a culture of compassion, unity and community service across Cowdray Park and beyond.”

Looking ahead, the foundation plans to roll out more empowerment programmes, talent development initiatives, community outreach projects and awareness campaigns addressing issues affecting young people and other vulnerable groups.

“Members of the public and potential partners can support our work by volunteering, sharing ideas, donating resources, sponsoring projects and collaborating with us to create lasting positive change in our community,” Moyo said.