Old Mutual Donates 2,000 Blankets To Hospitals, Care Centres

Harare, Zimbabwe – Old Mutual Zimbabwe, through its philanthropic arm, the Old Mutual Foundation Trust, has launched its annual #WinterWarmer Campaign, set to distribute a substantial 2,000 blankets to hospitals and care centres nationwide.

This extensive initiative aims to provide much-needed warmth and comfort to vulnerable individuals in hospitals, clinics, orphanages, and various care homes across the country.

Samuel Matsekete, Old Mutual Zimbabwe Group Chief Executive Officer, revealed that the beneficiaries for this year’s campaign were collaboratively chosen by both the organisation’s dedicated employees and the general public, ensuring that aid reaches where it’s most needed.

The initial phase of deliveries is already underway this week, prioritising 14 critical frontline institutions identified for urgent support.

In the capital, Harare, the campaign is extending its support to the Jairos Jiri Association for the Disabled and Blind, alongside the Bumhudzo Old People’s Home, both vital centres offering essential care to those facing significant challenges.

Further south in Bulawayo, blankets will be delivered to Mpilo Hospital and Ingutsheni Psychiatric Hospital, institutions dedicated to providing crucial treatment and support to patients.

The Midlands region will see benefits extended to Mvuma Hospital and the Shekinah Glory Children’s Home in Zvishavane, ensuring both the infirm and vulnerable children are not overlooked during the colder months.

In Mashonaland Central, the Ponesai Vanhu Children’s Home in Bindura, an institution constantly in high demand for resources, will be a recipient.

Mashonaland East will receive assistance at the Catholic Mutemwa Leprosy and Care Centre in Mutoko, with additional support reaching institutions in Domboshava through the long-standing Runyararo Programme, which aids those in need.

Moving to Mashonaland West, the Vimbainesu Children’s Home in Zvimba is set to receive much-needed supplies, bolstering care for children dependent on dedicated caregivers.

Further south, Ngomahuru Psychiatric Hospital in Masvingo will benefit, alongside Plumtree District Hospital and Gwanda District Hospital in Matabeleland South, bringing essential relief and comfort to their patients.

Finally, in Manicaland, the campaign will extend its vital support to Chipinge General Hospital.

Old Mutual underscores that this campaign is a clear reflection of its ongoing commitment to supporting communities, especially as winter temperatures drop, by prioritising the needs of the most vulnerable.

Matsekete elaborated on this year’s unique approach: “This year’s #WinterWarmer campaign was truly special because it was shaped by our communities. We asked our employees and the public to nominate places they felt needed support the most. By listening to them, we made sure help went where it is really needed and we grew even closer to the people we serve… The coldest months remind us that even the smallest acts of care can make a powerful difference.”

He also highlighted the broader impact: “Our Winter Warmer initiative is not just about providing warmth; it is also part of a broader strategy to support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, especially SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequality), and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). Through this, we aim to build stronger, more resilient communities across Zimbabwe.”

Hospitals, children’s homes, and various care centres across Zimbabwe face severe challenges during the winter season. Vulnerable groups, including the elderly, chronically ill patients, and children, are at heightened risk from the cold. Limited heating and often overcrowded conditions make access to warm blankets not just a comfort, but an essential component for both physical well-being and dignity.

As temperatures continue to fall, Old Mutual is expediting its campaign to ensure all 2,000 blankets are delivered swiftly, aiming to provide warmth before the harshest winter conditions truly set in.