Cape Times Big Walk funds helping citizens

A RECORD number of funds raised in the Cape Times Big Walk were handed over to four charities last night at an event at the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden.

Last year’s charity walk raised over R1 million which was donated to the Steenberg Foundation which gives young people access to education and employment opportunities; the Nazareth House which provides a home for abandoned and orphaned children; and the Cancer Association of South Africa. Each charity received R75 000.

Additional charity projects operated by the Rotary Club of Claremont and Spartan Harriers Athletic Club also received donations.

“We’ve been a sponsor of the event for many years,” Michael Vale, marketing manager for Independent Newspapers, said.

“We’re always proud to be associated with the event because we believe it’s important to give back to the community that we serve.”

Over the past five years, the event raised R5.7m for charities across Cape Town.

A record number of 36 467 walkers participated in the Discovery Cape Times Big Walk in November, walking 10 routes all of which ended at Rhodes High School in Mowbray. From grandparents to professional runners, they set off from the Grand Parade, Rondebosch, Green Point, Gugulethu, Sea Point and other starting locations.

“We have to thank all our walkers, and our sponsors for making a tangible contribution to uplift Cape Town,” Tania Carolus, the organiser, said.

“We look forward to the 2014 Big Walk, and sharing this experience with everyone from all walks of life.”

The walk is set to take place on Sunday, November 9.