CSR hosts fundraising luncheon

Sunday Mail Reporter

THE Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Network Zimbabwe will on Friday host a fundraising luncheon at a Harare hotel to commemorate the World CSR Day.

CSR Network Zimbabwe chief operating officer Mrs Lydia Matengambiri said proceeds from the event will go towards supporting four old people’s homes.

This year’s commemorations will run under the theme: “A united front towards sustainable development”.

“The theme for this year comes from the need for corporates across sectors to stand as a united front to address various social issues within our country,” she said.

“Together we can collaborate to achieve more.

“Our beneficiaries this year are Bumhudzo Old People’s Home in Harare, Mucheke Old People’s in Masvingo, Edith Duly Old People’s Home in Bulawayo and Zororai Old People’s Home in Mutare.

“These homes cater for the elderly aged between 68-109 years.”

She said the institutions were in desperate need of wheelchairs, adult diapers, personal protective equipment (PPE), detergents and groceries.

The institutions, she said, have struggled to get assistance from well-wishers over the last two years as a result of the Covid-19.

“These elderly can barely do any projects to sustain themselves, so as corporates it is noble to cater for those who are solely dependent on well-wishers.

She added: “We sincerely appeal to corporates across industries to collaborate with us to gather these urgent needs.

“So far we have managed to reach out to some companies and individuals and the response has been lukewarm.

“We are still hopeful that more companies will come on board to make this a success.”

CSR Network Zimbabwe board chairperson Ms Lucy Marowa said:

“Because corporate social responsibility is not compulsory, many companies might not feel the need to engage in it, but we believe it is important for companies to prioritise social responsibility.

“Businesses can no longer operate with the sole aim of making profits at the expense of the environment and society. Companies ought to consider how best they can conduct responsible business.”

The event will be held at Crowne Plaza Monomotapa hotel starting at 11.30am.