Online Reporter
Rutendo Nyeve Victoria Falls Reporter
THE Old Mutual Foundation Trust has launched the Winter Warmer Campaign, a nationwide initiative aimed at delivering warmth and dignity to vulnerable communities.
As winter tightens its grip across the nation, Old Mutual Zimbabwe, through its charitable arm, has rolled out the campaign, which involves the distribution of 2 000 blankets to hospitals, clinics, orphanages, and old people’s homes.
In a press statement, Old Mutual Zimbabwe said the campaign is a timely response to the biting cold that threatens the health and well-being of the country’s most at-risk populations.
The group has engaged its employees and the public to nominate institutions they believed needed support the most. By doing so, group chief executive officer, Mr Samuel Matsekete, said the initiative ensured that assistance reached those who needed it most while fostering a deeper connection between the organization and the communities it serves.
“This year’s #WinterWarmer campaign was truly special because it was shaped by our communities. We asked our employees and the public to nominate places they felt needed support the most,” he said.
“By listening to them, we made sure help went where it is really needed—and we grew even closer to the people we serve.”
The first round of deliveries began this week, targeting 14 frontline institutions identified as high-priority. With winter intensifying, Old Mutual is fast-tracking the campaign to ensure all blankets reach their destinations before the coldest temperatures set in.
The initiative spans the length and breadth of Zimbabwe, touching lives in every province. In Bulawayo, support extends to Mpilo Hospital and Ingutsheni Psychiatric Hospital, where patients receive critical care.
The Midlands province will see blankets delivered to Mvuma Hospital in Gweru and Shekinah Glory Children’s Home in Zvishavane, ensuring that both the sick and vulnerable children are protected from the cold.
In Mashonaland Central, Ponesai Vanhu Children’s Home in Bindura will receive much-needed aid, while Mashonaland East will benefit from support to Mutemwa Leprosy Catholic and Care Centre in Mutoko and other institutions in Domboshava through the Runyararo Programme.
In Harare, the Jairos Jiri Association for the Disabled and Blind and Bumhudzo Old People’s Home are among the beneficiaries.
Mashonaland West’s Vimbainesu Children’s Home in Zvimba will also receive vital assistance, providing comfort to children who rely on the kindness of caregivers.
In the southern regions, Ngomahuru Psychiatric Hospital in Masvingo, Plumtree District Hospital, and Gwanda District Hospital in Matabeleland South will be supported, bringing warmth to patients in these critical facilities.
Finally, Chipinge General Hospital in Manicaland will not be left behind, ensuring that no one is forgotten during this harsh winter season.
Beyond providing immediate relief, the Winter Warmer Campaign aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequality), and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).
“The coldest months remind us that even the smallest acts of care can make a powerful difference. Our Winter Warmer initiative is not just about providing warmth, it is also part of a broader strategy to support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Through this, we aim to build stronger, more resilient communities across Zimbabwe,” said Mr Matsekete.
Winter poses significant challenges for hospitals, children’s homes, and care centers across Zimbabwe. Vulnerable groups, including patients with chronic illnesses, the elderly, and children, are particularly at risk of cold-related health complications. Overcrowded facilities and limited heating make access to warm blankets not just a comfort but a necessity for survival.
“This year’s #WinterWarmer campaign is not just about donations, it’s about reaching the hands that care for the most vulnerable in our society. Across the country, we are supporting institutions that provide daily care and comfort to those who need it most,” said Mr Matsekete.
Old Mutual Zimbabwe’s initiative is part of the organisaition’s corporate social responsibility and community collaboration.
