Mayor’s Christmas Cheer Fund off to good start

MORE than $33 000 has been raised for this year’s Bulawayo Mayor’s Christmas Cheer Fund.

The amount, which is already more than half of the initial target of $50 000, was raised on Friday during the launch of the fund in city. Speaking at the launch, Bulawayo Mayor Councillor Solomon Mguni said he was humbled by the support the fund has received from people and companies in the city.

“We are humbled by the response of Bulawayo corporate groups who have come to support the Mayor’s Christmas Cheer Fund. This is the only time where we come together to support and remember the under-privileged. I had set the target of $50 000, and at this time I am short of words as we have surpassed half the targeted amount as we have managed to get $33 964,24c only in one night. With this step I think we will end up doubling the target,” he said.

Council spokesperson Mrs Nesisa Mpofu encouraged residents to support the Mayor’s Christmas Cheer Fund saying it will go a long way in putting a smile on someone during this festive season which is in line with the theme launch hashtag spread love.

“Every year the City of Bulawayo through the Mayor’s Christmas Cheer Fund which is jointly implemented by a board of trustees and stakeholders organise the launch where we initiate or we start off the process of fundraising towards the Cheer Fund. During this process we receive donations from well-wishers or stakeholders.

“These donations will go on a long way to provide added cheer on the vulnerable members of the community during the festive season.

“We are aware that it is possible that during Christmas there are some people who fail to get decent meals hence we provide them with food hampers that will add cheer.

“Our accounts are audited, don’t worry, donate any amount, your one million dollars is very safe,” she said.

She urged disadvantaged groups to register with the Bulawayo City Council housing social services.