By Rangarirai Shanyurai
Twenty-six institutions benefited from Masvingo City Mayor’s 2024 Christmas Cheer fund at an event held at the town house on December 19.
Speaking at the event, Masvingo City Deputy Mayor and Ward 5 Councillor Daniel Mberikunashe said they celebrated the community’s commitment to helping others, reflecting on how the community unites them through shared experiences.
“We are here not only to celebrate our shared commitment to uplifting those in need but also to recognize the power of generosity and compassion that resides in each one of us.
“As we embark on this journey of giving, let us take a moment to reflect on the true meaning of community. A community is more than just a collection of individuals; it is a tapestry woven together by our shared experiences, our collective challenges, and, most importantly, our willingness to support one another,” said Mberikunashe.
He said the cheer fund was a beacon of hope for several people in the community, and every dollar donated would go a long way in positively impacting people’s lives.
“The Mayor’s Cheer Fund serves as a beacon of hope for many families and individuals in our community. It provides essential resources to those who are struggling, whether it be through food assistance, educational programs, or emergency support. Every dollar donated will go directly towards making a significant impact in the lives of those who need it the most,” said Mberikunashe.
He encouraged continuous support for the Mayor’s Cheer Fund to help neighbors thrive and foster a lasting culture of giving.
“Your contributions, no matter how big or small, are vital in ensuring that our community remains strong and resilient. Together, we can help our neighbors overcome challenges, provide for their families, and foster an environment where everyone can thrive. We wish that everyone tells the next person that it is necessary to donate towards the event.
“Let’s also remember that our efforts do not end with a single donation. They are a call to action, inspiring us to continue spreading kindness and support throughout the year. I urge you to share the message of the Mayor’s Cheer Fund with your friends, family, and colleagues. Together, we can build a culture of giving that extends far beyond today.
“The Cheer Fund is an ongoing event; we can continue to bring our donations, and they will be directed to the relevant people throughout the year,” said Mberikunashe.
Disability Amalgamation Community Trust (DACT) Director Henry Chivhanga thanked those who donated towards the event and encouraged the beneficiaries to share what they got with others.
“I would like to thank the City of Masvingo, business organizations, golf participants, and members of the public for donating to the underprivileged. Those who failed to get an opportunity to deliver their items, feel free to come. I urge those who received from the cheer fund to share with others in need in their respective areas,” said Chivhanga.
Institutions that benefited from the cheer fund include Ngomahuru Hospital, Henry Murray School for the Deaf, Copota School for the Blind, Alfred Walter Hostel, Ratidzo Zimcare Trust, Alpha Cottages, Mucheke Old People’s Home, ZACH, NDPZ, National Council for Disabled Persons, Zimbabwe Parents of Handicapped Children, Zimbabwe Association of the Visually Handicapped, M. Hugo Primary, Jairos Jiri Association, Ngomahuru Psychiatric Hospital, Copota Secondary School, Henry Murray School, Copota Workshops, Masvingo Provincial Hospital, Alpha, Disability Amalgamation Community Trust, Pioneer Cottage, Masvingo Wheelchair Tennis Club, Mucheke Cloakroom (squatters), two pupils from Vurombo Primary School and Mucheke High School, as well as the people who have no fixed abode—the squatters at Mucheke Bus Terminus.