19/07/2025                                                                            
                                    
                                                                            
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Sherwood Hostel – Mandela Day Celebrations with Hope Foundation
Sherwood Hostel was honoured to commemorate Mandela Day in partnership with the Hope Foundation, marking a day filled with compassion, service, and empowerment.
Pre-Mandela Day Contributions:
Leading up to Mandela Day, we were thrilled to be introduced to a new donor, Pastor Kwanda from the Hope Foundation. Following a successful meeting, Pastor Kwanda visited our centre and immediately began supporting our needs. He and his team cleared overgrown grass and trees, beautifully transforming our surroundings and fulfilling a long-standing request.
Mandela Day Activities:
On Mandela Day itself, the Hope Foundation returned with even greater commitment:
 1. Gardening Project:
Residents actively participated in planting activities and received gardening attire. This initiative not only beautified the space but also fostered a sense of ownership and pride.
 2. Hostel Beautification:
Volunteers painted doors, planks, and other key areas including spaces near the kitchen, laundry, and life skills room — all of which greatly enhanced the hostel’s appearance.
 3. Donations and Essentials:
The Foundation generously donated blankets for all residents, party bags, food, and other essential items such as plastic cups, bowls, spoons, and bulbs.
 4. Respectful Engagement:
The Hope Foundation team treated our residents with dignity and care, making the day truly special and memorable for everyone involved.
Looking Ahead:
The Hope Foundation has promised to continue their support, with future plans that include:
 • Supplying new beds.
 • Expanding the fruit and vegetable gardens.
 • Additional painting and maintenance work.
 • Ongoing collaboration with management to support life skills development.
Conclusion:
This partnership has proven to be more than a once-off event — it’s the beginning of an ongoing relationship grounded in shared values and commitment to community upliftment.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Pastor Kwanda and the Hope Foundation for their generosity and dedication. It was a productive and inspiring Mandela Day.