Warm Hearts, Winter Clothes: Time to Care Brings Joy to Children and Elders Alike

In a heartwarming show of generosity and unity, South African non-profit organisation Time to Care (TTC) once again lived up to its name this winter. In May 2025, the foundation partnered with Ackermans at Boulders Shopping Mall to provide winter clothing and shoes to children from four communities — Ivory Park, Tembisa, Koolfontein, and Wendywood.

Volunteers assisted children in selecting warm, comfortable outfits, and the day ended with a celebratory lunch in Midrand, bringing smiles, warmth, and lasting memories. The initiative forms part of TTC’s broader mission to serve vulnerable communities across South Africa with unconditional compassion and practical support.

From clothing drives to food distributions, skills development to youth empowerment, TTC's outreach has touched lives in Soweto, Durban, Cape Town, Diepkloof, and beyond. Over just the past five months, TTC has:

* Distributed 3,800 food hampers and 1,000 meat packs across Gauteng

* Delivered 10,000 sandwiches to schools in Durban and Cape Town

* Donated 240 blankets and 300 hoodies to families braving the winter* Supplied 100 stationery packs to students in Koolfontein, Ivory Park, Midrand, and Pretoria

* Offered regular baking and sewing classes in Midrand and Daveyton

* Facilitated school clubs where thousands of sandwiches are made weekly by learners and volunteers TTC Director Huseyin Kublay, who remains hands-on in all outreach efforts, emphasised the organisation’s inclusive approach.

“Our mission is to be there on time to help,” said Kublay. ''Regardless of race, religion, or background, we continue to support those in need. Seeing the smiles on people’s faces motivates us to reach even more communities.”

On July 18, 2025, in a powerful tribute to Nelson Mandela Day, TTC extended its compassion to the elderly at Bekkersdal Old Age Home. In collaboration with the Provincial Crime Prevention Police Department, the Health Department, and other partners, the foundation distributed 110 food hampers, blankets, beanies, and loaves of bread.

The event was joined by members of Parliament, health workers, and District Commissioner General Sithole. The day included not only gift-giving but also a lively aerobics session hosted by the Health Department, aimed at promoting wellness among the elderly.

Later, a programme featuring Director Kublay, General Sithole, and Station Commander General Zikalala included hymns and expressions of appreciation for the elderly, rekindling a spirit of hope and togetherness. Rami Matsila, Stakeholder in Governance Manager for District Health Services, summed up the day’s meaning: “Today we pledge care and amplify the call for humanity.

We joined hands to honour Mandela’s legacy and the ubuntu he stood for. This is about extending love and dignity to our elders.

As winter continues, so do TTC’s efforts, with ongoing blanket, hoodie, food, and meat distributions planned. In every community it touches, Time to Care is proving that even the smallest gesture of kindness can warm a heart — and a nation.