SLB’s CRI drive warms, touches

SEBONGILE MATHE and

‘MANTŠANG KHUTLISI

SEMONKONG – Standard Lesotho Bank (SLB) last Friday delivered the first batch of donations from its Winter Drive initiative to the Semonkong Children’s Centre. This heartwarming gesture, which began last year with SLB employees collecting clothes, which they donated to Mohlomi Hospital and the juvenile prison, has expanded significantly this year.

Recognising the success of last year’s efforts, SLB decided to broaden the Winter Drive’s reach. Manyathela Kheleli, SLB Marketing Manager for Communications and Sponsorships, explained that this year’s initiative encouraged Basotho donate clothing at their nearest SLB branch. The bank supplemented these donations with blankets, cosmetics, and a substantial M100 000 contributions to ensure the programme’s success.

Kheleli stated that the bank aims to extend this support to every district in Lesotho and urged other companies to join the effort.

“We want these children to feel loved and seen,” he emphasised.

Khoase Makolojane, a caretaker at the Semonkong Children’s Centre, expressed profound gratitude for SLB’s support.

He highlighted the centre’s significant need for children’s clothing, explaining that the donation will greatly improve the children’s appearance and self-esteem.

Established in 2006 with only two children, the centre now cares for 21 children aged six to nineteen. Makolojane explained that while social development assists with fees, the centre faces ongoing financial challenges.

The centre accepts children from across Lesotho, aged two to high school graduation, many of whom are victims of abuse, orphans, or families unable to provide adequate care.

The community also expressed its appreciation for SLB’s generosity. Mokupa Maqulo, speaking on behalf of Ha Mateketa chief, lauded the bank for undertaking a task too challenging for the community alone. He echoed the sentiment that the donation would ensure the children feel loved and valued.

Tsotang Hantši, Chairperson of the Urban Council, added his thanks but also highlighted a critical need, a football field. He suggested that providing a designated play area would improve the children’s health and well-being while keeping them in a safe and contained environment.

The Success of SLB’ s Winter Drive demonstrates the power of corporate social responsibility and community collaboration. The initiative not only provides much-needed resources to vulnerable children but also fosters a sense of belonging and hope.

Meanwhile, back in Maseru, in a beautiful display of unity, compassion and solidarity, Basotho from all walks of life came together on the same day, at the Standard Lesotho Bank Tower Square in the heart for a powerful communal event that celebrated the enduring spirit of giving.

What began as a humble winter initiative has blossomed into a vibrant symbol of hope and generosity, proving once again that the heart of Lesotho beats strongest when its people stand together.

The square was filled with warm smiles, generous hearts and open hands as scores of individuals, families and organizations contributed in various ways to ensure that no one is left behind this winter.

The event, dubbed “Share the Warmth” brought people to donate warm clothing, non-perishable food as well as toiletries to vulnerable families and individuals who continue to struggle against the harsh grip of the winter season.

As temperatures in the country remain bitterly cold, especially in highland areas, the Tower Square was transformed into a sanctuary of warmth, not only physically, but emotionally and spiritually.

Volunteers as well as donors alike embraced the opportunity to give, to connect and to remind one another that kindness indeed never goes out of season.

As the sun set over the city, there was a clear sense that something extraordinary had happened at the Tower Square, not just the distribution of material items, but the revival of a timeless truth that when people come together with open hearts, the warmth they create can melt even the coldest winters.

In a world that often feels divided and uncertain, Friday’s event was a radiant reminder that hope is alive in Lesotho, fuelled by the generosity and unity of its people.