WIZO Joburg’s Charidy campaign a virtual hug for needy kids

OWN CORRESPONDENT

Or, think of the sad and shocking fact that many kids in South Africa are unable to leave their homes due to congenital, chronic, or degenerative neuromuscular conditions. They can’t go to school or socialise, and are often shunned by their communities.

WIZO (the Women’s International Zionist Organisation) Johannesburg exists to nurture others. With many of our members being mothers, we prioritise those who are most vulnerable.

This is why we launched the Charidy campaign with the goal of raising R1.5 million. The funds will go towards trauma counselling in Israel for children and their families who are affected by Gaza rocket attacks; and for buying specially designed, all-terrain wheelchairs to give a life-changing gift of mobility to needy young candidates around South Africa.

On 4 and 5 June, our dedicated team took over the Beyachad boardroom, converting it into a buzzing call-centre. Our ladies worked tirelessly to ensure that we reached our target by the end of our allocated 36 hours. As the excitement – and nerves – mounted, and our callers continued to burn up those telephone lines, the number on our big screens continued to increase. With minutes to spare, we managed to raise R1.5 million! There was great joy and euphoria at reaching this magical goal. Nothing compares to knowing that you are able to make a tangible, positive difference to the lives of those who really need it.