MANDELA DAY IN ROSEBANK: BUILD-A-BACKPACK CAMPAIGN 2024
Join us for this year’s Build-a-Backpack Campaign. The Rosebank Districts are committed to tackling social issues that face the precinct, and this is done through the support of initiatives that help build the neighbourhood and support the community.
A key initiative is the Build-a-Backpack campaign started by the Rosebank Management District in collaboration with the Rosebank Homeless Association in July 2023, with the aim of providing some necessary essentials to the most vulnerable members of the community at the Immaculata Shelter in Rosebank.
Based at the Rosebank Catholic Church and run by the Rosebank Homeless Association, the Immaculata Shelter is one of few dedicated shelters for the homeless in Joburg’s northern suburbs. As well as safe shelter, the association provides skills training and help with documentation for the homeless, working to help people get back on their feet with dignity.
With an alarming increase of unemployed persons in Joburg, and the change of season, the start of winter has already seen the number of people approaching the shelter steadily rise.
Currently, the Immaculata Shelter can accommodate up to 100 people, providing them with a place to sleep and a nutritious meal daily. The Build-a-Backpack campaign is an opportunity for the Rosebank community to get involved and support efforts by the shelter – extending support to those in need during this season.
“Mandela month is one of our coldest winter months, so we appeal to the community to remember those who are less fortunate. At present, we have more than 550 people registered with us to receive clothes and basics to survive. These people are constantly on their feet walking around to make ends meet and a pair of shoes goes a long way to get them there” notes Fiona Manoim, a Social Worker at Immaculata Shelter.
Last year we received an overwhelming response from the community, including a sizable donation of 50 new backpacks with essential items from hotels Southern Sun Rosebank and 54 on Bath. Again this year, we appeal to our stakeholders to support this initiative for a concentrated impact in the neighbourhood. The campaign will run until July 31, 2024.
“What a generous donation, and what a good idea to ask for the backpacks. Please convey the thanks of the Immaculata Shelter and the Rosebank Homeless Association for such a splendid donation to all concerned, and to RMD for putting out the word.” Judith Briggs, Chairperson of the Rosebank Homeless Association
Without a place to call home, many people experiencing homelessness are forced to carry their belongings with them. By providing a sturdy backpack, you can help safeguard their belongings and preserve the dignity of people in need. Provide a backpack and fill it with some or all of these items:
- Clothing for men and women
- Shoes and socks, trousers, jerseys and beanies
- Toiletries
- Bath soap, a toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant and body lotion
- Bath towel
- Blanket
- Laundry detergent
Donations can be dropped off at the Rosebank Visitor Centre inside Rosebank Mall (accessible through the Bath Ave entrance). Please note the charity box, previously in the mall, has been moved to the Visitor Centre. For bulk donations pick-up and more information, please contact Basil on +27 71 764 1972.
For contributions and support to the Immaculata Shelter, directly contact Michael Ntuli on +27 11 447 9801 or +27 73 321 0968. The Shelter is located at 17 Sturdee Ave, Rosebank, 2196 in the Sisters of Mercy Immaculata Hall (next to the Rosebank Police Station).
