R5k from Dispatch for orphans

FUN 2
FUN 2
The Ibandla Lasemtini Evangelical Movement run by philanthropist Tshepo Machaea will receive a welcome R5000 boost from the Daily Dispatch Mthatha Fun Run to help his charity organisation continue spreading good cheer to orphaned children in Mthatha.

Dispatch marketing and events coordinator Wanga Mjoli said they were honoured to play a role in Tshepo Machaea’s charity initiative, and that they will continue to support charity organisations in communities.

Mjoli said it was all systems go for the running spectacular.

“It will be an exciting weekend ahead here in Mthatha. The vibe is already overwhelming and we are hoping for the best weather for tomorrow.

“People are still flocking to the registration point ... Everyone should come and join us as we try to lead a healthy lifestyle.

“We all know that we have to exercise at some point so this would be a great start ... it is also for a great cause.”

Machaea said the money would go a long way: “Because we have orphans that we feed in Mthatha and the numbers grow when schools are closed because some of them depend on the schools feeding schemes.

“Once schools are closed there are many kids that sleep with empty stomachs, and some of them come to us. So this donation will have a huge impact in helping us bring a difference to these children’s lives and their homes.”

Machaea said he was joyful when he received a phone call from Dispatch informing him of this news.

“It came as a wonderful surprise to me because I even remember I was in Durban and I was taking my wife to the doctor that day.

“This is testament that God can see the work you are doing for His people.”

He thanked the Dispatch for playing the role of “parent” in the community: “Two years back I was one of their Local Heroes who received a donation, and I was able to organise a traditional circumcision ceremony for boys who couldn’t afford to go to the mountain.

“And the Dispatch has over the years really shown that it’s really the people’s paper that looks after the community’s needs.”

He said he works with everyone who wants to bring change to peoples’ lives as they have no political affiliation.

“We are not only feeding kids. Today there are young people we’ve assisted to get a kickstart in life, like one boy from around here who is now a heavy duty vehicle driver.

“We helped him acquire his Code 14 licence and he’s now earning a salary, and we have students in tertiary institutions.

“So if companies can support us in this idea of saying ‘let us care for those that are less fortunate’, that would help us grow as a nation.”

Dispatch Mthatha Fun Run late entries are still open next to the Food Lovers Markets at BT Ngebs Mall until 6pm today.

As well as the numerous prizes on offer, the school that has the most entries will win R5000.

Mjoli said the Daily Dispatch would like to thank all sponsors, namely, OR Tambo District Municipality, Cheetahs Athletes Club, Coca-Cola, BT Ngebs City, Premier Mister Bread Mthatha, Tranquillity, UCR Station and Motion Fitness Mthatha.

l Runners have been advised to organise their own transport to the starting points (WSU Sports Ground and the R61 between Sasol and Caltex .

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