THE CHAMPIONS
 CHARITY CUP:
CELEBRATING
 OUR BEST
CAREGIVERS
Mamelodi Sundowns visiting the orphanage for International Day of CharityAuthor: Dumisani KoyanaPhotos: Sundowns MediaMamelodi Sundowns Foundation has started an initiative that recognises community-based organisations in South Africa by launching the Annual Champions Charity Cup (CCC) to celebrate the International Day of Charity which took place on the 5th September 2022. This is an initiative driven and undertaken by the club to support non-profit organisations (NPO) that are making a positive impact in their communities.

The first ever handover of the award took place on the International Day of Charity, declared by the United Nations, to commemorate the anniversary of the passing of the Nobel Peace Prize winner Mother Teresa; who received the prestigious honour for her work in the struggle to overcome poverty.
‘Give Them Hope Orphanage’ in Nellmapius, Pretoria, was the first recipient of the Cup. The Centre was opened by Matshidiso Mothiba who has selflessly created a home for orphans affected by social ills, which has been open for over a decade.
Matshidiso Mothiba holding the Champions Charity CupMothiba commented on how the home came about, “We started the centre in 2009 which, at the time, was a thriving tavern. During that period there was a stigma associated with certain illnesses which was having an impact on those infected in the community. I decided I wanted to make a difference and convert the tavern into a shelter to cater for the kids affected by diseases.”

She went on further to express the impact the visit from Masandawana had on her home, “It is such a privilege to be paid a visit by this great football club. We truly cherish this moment, and it will never be forgotten. The donation received will go a long way in assisting our cause.”

An amount of R98,000 was received by the centre to provide shelter, food, clothes, and school materials for kids. Siyabonga Sibanyoni who is a resident at the home expressed gratitude to the reigning DSTV Premiership Champions, “This donation made by the club will have a huge impact on our lives, we are extremely grateful.”Ka bo Yellow kids holding the chequeOn the success of the event, Chairman of Mamelodi Sundowns, Tlhopie Motsepe praised the centre “We want to thank you for everything you do by taking care of the kids, who are the future of the country. We really hope that the donation will be helpful. In the spirit of the day that we are celebrating, we want to say that ‘you are the champions of the community’. The International charity day is when the United Nations and everyone in the world recognise humanitarians and the world needs more people like Mama Matshidiso who inspire us as a club.”

This latest act of service further highlights one of Mamelodi Sundowns’ cardinal objectives as a football club, which is giving back to communities and lending a hand of support to future generations.

Mother Teresa once said − It's not how much we give but how much love we put into giving.We hope that the Yellow Nation are encouraged to embrace this day in 2023 and make a difference in their communities.