Tinaani Nyabereka
Gweru City Council recently launched its 2023 Mayor’s Christmas Cheer Fund with a target of US$50 000 which is expected to benefit, marginalized groups in the community.
The launch was attended by various stakeholders and the business community.
Speaking at the launch, Gweru Mayor Martin Chivhoko said he valued the support from the business community and their coming at the event was a commitment towards improving the welfare of marginalized groups.
“The Cheer fund is done with the purpose of helping underprivileged members, I am deeply honored that you have come to support us.
“This shows the commitment that you have in ensuring that during the festive season we support the underprivileged in our different communities.
“The festive season is a time of giving where most families enjoy each other’s company through exchange of gifts and goods. However, some members of our community barely make ends meet, hence I call upon all our honored guests and members of the public to kindly help in cash or kind.” he said
He added through the fund, beneficiaries were going to have a memorable Christmas and said the amount will help in different ways depending on the need of the beneficiaries.
“It is through your help and support that the Cheer fund beneficiaries in our society also manage to celebrate Christmas.
“The target of this year’s donations is US$50 000 which is intended to help the beneficiaries in either educational aid or day to day living needs.
“I want to take this opportunity to also call upon the business community to take up social responsibilities through educational aid by paying school fees for students to a level where they can stand on their own feet.
“My words alone are not enough to show you how grateful I am. However, I am certain that your kindness will not go in vain as those who will receive the donations will forever be grateful to you,” said Chivhoko.
Young Voice Disability Zimbabwe Director, Nyasha Mahwende however expressed gratitude to council for remembering Persons with disability through the Cheer fund.
The Village Lodge donated 100 x 10 Kg of mealie meal while Linda Rose, an individual in the tourism industry, donated 20 × 2 litres of cooking oil. Several companies and individuals donated undisclosed amounts of money.
