Durban rallies behind matrics with Mandela Day bucket campaign

STUDYING on an empty stomach is hard but this year matriculants preparing for their crucial exams won't go hungry. 

Instead they’ll receive buckets of love this Mandela Day when volunteers will gather to prepare buckets filled with food which will be given to resource-scarce pupils. 

SA Harvest, a leading food rescue organisation in South Africa, is spearheading the campaign and says that hundreds of care buckets will be packed.  

“Our campaign is not just about charity; it’s about justice,” says Ozzy Nel, COO of SA Harvest. 

“Food rescue is not a handout; it’s a powerful tool for systemic change. We aim to meet young people where they are and give them a real chance at success.” 

Nel says the campaign is particularly timely, given the alarming findings of the 2024 SERI Food (In)Security Report, which revealed that over 63% of South African households face food insecurity. 

He said that with millions of children being affected by poor nutrition and the resulting academic shortcomings, the need for initiatives like this has never been greater.

He says the Pavillion will be a hive of activity from 10am to 5pm on Mandela Day, when volunteers, shoppers, and community partners join forces to pack hundreds of care buckets. 

Each bucket will include shelf-stable nutritious food, hygiene essentials, and exam stationery, all crucial for helping learners to focus on their studies.

Apart from filling the buckets, the event will also feature live music, school choirs, and other interactive experiences.

In 2024, the Mandela Month campaign mobilised over 350 volunteers, packing nearly 3,000 buckets across three cities. This year, because of contributions from the Road Freight Association,  the event will be even bigger reaching even the most hard-to-reach communities.

Organisers say those who want to make a contribution can expand can sponsor a bucket at R500, assist with packing at the Pavilion, or partnering with SA Harvest for corporate activations or logistical support. 

Donations can be made at https://saharvest.org/buckets/, using the reference “Buckets”.