Over 800 blankets, dog food and winter essentials were donated to shelter dogs in a heartfelt drive that proved kindness can save lives, even in winter.
Johannesburg, South Africa (05 August 2025) – What started as a bold blanket drive goal to collect 2,000 blankets for shelter dogs has ended with something perhaps even greater: a testament to what happens when ordinary people refuse to look away.
The winter blanket drive led by Events For A Purpose wrapped up this past week, and while the final tally may not have reached the original target, the impact has been nothing short of extraordinary. Thanks to generous donations from individuals and businesses across Johannesburg, over 842 blankets were distributed to four animal welfare organisations, along with 50 dog jerseys, kennels, dog beds, and around 35 10kg bags of dog food.
For dogs without heaters, homes or even basic shelter, these gifts have meant everything.
“There are no words that could adequately express just how grateful we are,” said organiser Ornella. “You may not know each donor by name, but each of you has made a difference.”
The four shelters supported, The Dogs Trust, Dogtown South Africa, Paws R Us: SA, and Happy Yappers Animal Sanctuary, care for nearly 600 dogs between them, many of whom live outdoors or in basic kennels. Some of these organisations also do outreach in informal settlements, where animals are even more vulnerable.
In the quiet aftermath of the drive, a heartbreaking reminder of why these efforts matter surfaced: a message from one outreach worker who found a litter of 10 puppies, eight of them had not survived the cold. It’s the kind of horror many would rather not face. But animal rescuers do. And thanks to those who donated, they don’t have to face it alone.
“We’re not all brave enough to do what these rescuers do,” Ornella shared. “But we can do something. And every blanket, every jersey, every kind word shared online—that was something.”
The team extended their thanks to the businesses that hosted donation bins and helped promote the drive, calling their support “essential to the success of this effort.”
With winter still biting, the need continues, but so does the hope. For one cold season, at least, hundreds of shelter dogs got to feel the warmth of community.
The next event for charity will be a quiz night; you can find out more here.
Sources: Events for a Purpose – Supplied
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