News – MES

RSG and Virseker’s “Bakgat” Competition Brings Nationwide Holiday Joy

RSG and Virseker’s “Bakgat” Competition Brings Nationwide Holiday Joy

RSG (Radio Sonder Grense) and Virseker Insurance recently wrapped up their “Bakgat” rusk competition, which unexpectedly evolved into a powerful display of generosity, benefiting communities across South Africa. By declaring 13 November as National Rusk Day, the event attracted thousands of bakers from across the country, eager to demonstrate their expertise and contribute to celebrating local baking talent. This initiative not only emphasised creativity but also cultivated a strong sense of community and goodwill, as RSG and Virseker turned the competition into a meaningful act of charity. A collective effort of bakers nationwide The competition, designed to highlight the country’s finest rusks, received an overwhelming response, with over 1,510 entries and more than 36,000 rusks submitted, each meticulously crafted and packaged. After narrowing down the participants to the top 72 and then to the top 5, Marthle Smith from Nelson Mandela Bay was crowned the ultimate “Bakgat” rusk champion on 13 November. Baking for a noble cause: Turning surplus into assistance The success of the competition left RSG with an unanticipated surplus of rusks. Rather than letting the additional batches go unused, they decided to donate them to MES (Mould Empower Serve), a non-profit organisation running shelters and support programmes across various South African cities, including Johannesburg, Kempton Park, Gqeberha, and Cape Town. Leona, CEO of MES, expressed her appreciation for the contribution, noting that the rusks would be a welcome addition to their annual Packaged Love Campaign. This seasonal initiative delivers essential resources to vulnerable families and individuals during the holiday season. Leona remarked, “This is a wonderful opportunity to bless many individuals and families with delicious rusks during the festive season.” The rusks provided by RSG and Virseker played a pivotal role in enhancing the Packaged Love Campaign, ensuring that many individuals could enjoy homemade treats at a time when they might have otherwise gone without. A day of thoughtful giving On 4 December, the MES Youth Leadership team, joined by Development and Marketing Officer, Brigitte Potgieter, visited the RSG offices to prepare the rusks for distribution. The rusks were carefully packed and dispatched to various MES programmes in Johannesburg, Gqeberha and Cape Town, including Early Childhood Development Centres, after-school initiatives, shelters, and projects supporting at-risk youth and families. The donation incited gratitude throughout the MES network. The rusks provided a much-needed gesture of care, bringing joy and nourishment to many during a time of year often associated with hardship. Thousands of rusks travelled across the country, offering comfort and support to those in need. A community united: Strengthening supportive bondsThe partnership between RSG, Virseker, and MES highlights the strength of community-driven efforts. What started as a baking competition transformed into a valuable opportunity to share resources and positively impact the lives of South Africans in need. Through this collaboration, creativity and a sense of community came together to make a meaningful difference, with the simple act of baking and sharing rusks spreading joy ...

Pilot Count of Rough Sleepers Undertaken Across Cape Town

Pilot Count of Rough Sleepers Undertaken Across Cape Town

Several organisations serving the people experiencing homelessness conducted a pilot point-in-time count of individuals experiencing rough sleeping on the night of November 13, 2024. This initiative, organized by U-turn, Streetscapes, MES, New Hope SA, the Haven, and VRCID, marks the beginning of regular counts aimed at understanding and ultimately reducing homelessness in the city. Read the Press Release here

Packaged Love – Deliver your love this Christmas

Packaged Love – Deliver your love this Christmas

Deliver your love this Christmas! As the festive season approaches, we invite you to join our heartwarming campaign, "Deliver your Love." This year, we are making it easier than ever for you to spread joy and make a difference in our community, all from the comfort of your home! With your help, we can ensure that no one is forgotten this Christmas and that all our beneficiaries feel the warmth of your generosity! Every donation, big or small, brings us one step closer to providing support and comfort to those in need. Let’s come together this holiday season to deliver love, hope, and essential items to our community. How can you help? Choose your gift Please select from a list of much-needed items included below. Our branch needs lists include everything from non-perishable food to essential materials that will assist in caring for our community. Order online Use your favourite online delivery platform to send your donations directly to us. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for those with busy schedules who cannot visit us in person. Spread the word Share our "Deliver your Love" campaign with friends and family to get involved. The more love we deliver, the bigger impact we’ll make! Visit us We would love for you to visit us and do your deliveries directly too! Join us in delivering love! Click on each branch for our needs list and delivery information. For more information, please email engage@mes.org.za. You can also pledge your support by calling us at +2711 725 6531 or +27 78 765 0169. MES Johannesburg MES Kempton Park MES Gqeberha MES Cape Town

Get your cycle gear ready and join MES at 947 Ride Joburg

Get your cycle gear ready and join MES at 947 Ride Joburg

Calling on all cyclists to activate your heart for change! Virgin Active 947 Ride Joburg returns to Joburg’s streets on 17 November 2024. This day is a call to action for individuals, communities, and organisations to raise funds towards bursaries to cover tuition fees and study materials for our 14 MES Joshuas. MES invites you to support our team and raise funds for the MES Joshua Youth Servant Leadership programme. How you can get involved with MES and Virgin Active 947 Ride Joburg Dedicate your ride to MES when registering for the Ride for a Purpose initiative on the 947 Ride Joburg website. Our promo code is SEM-657. Click here to redeem our promo code. Raise R2500 for your entry fee and your MES shirt. Contribute or sponsor a MES Joshuas entry fee. Ride alongside and engage with our Joshua team on 17 November 2024. Join us at the MES water point on race day to motivate riders and celebrate the day in MES spirit! Interested to get involved? Contact Brigitte Potgieter at MES Johannesburg on 011 725 6531 or email her at engage@mes.org.za REDEEM THE PROMO CODE SEM-657 HERE Why support the MES "Ride for a Purpose" initiative? Funds raised will support the Joshuas with university registration, tuition fees, and study materials. You can request an 18A Tax Certificate for your generous donation. Your involvement will go a long way in enabling our Joshuas to continue supporting the youth and inner-city communities in Johannesburg. For further assistance on how you can raise funds or pledge your support for our Youth Servant Leaders, please contact us at 011 725 6531 or email brigitte@mes.org.za More about our Joshuas The MES Joshuas is a servant leadership gap-year programme for 14 selected matriculants with leadership potential. These youths play a vital role in the MES learners programmes, where they become mentors and tutors for the younger children in the After School Programmes (ASPs), in sports, arts, and the MES Dance 4 A Purpose projects. At the end of the leadership year, MES supports them in finding suitable training, study bursaries or employment. Most Joshuas remain MES supporters, and some have become strong champions for MES' work. Your donation and/or promotion of this MES flagship programme will empower these aspiring leaders to obtain the education they desire and make a lasting impact in their communities. Follow the Joshua's 947 Ride Joburg journey Regular updates will be shared in the gallery below.

First walk in my shoes – World Homeless Day

First walk in my shoes – World Homeless Day

Walk in their shoes this World Homeless Day with MES The global homelessness crisis is felt acutely in South Africa. Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, millions of people lost their jobs, leading to a rise in suicide rates, crime, depression, domestic violence, and drug addiction. These conditions have pushed thousands of people into homelessness, with 50% of the homeless population experiencing chronic homelessness. It means they have been on the streets for over a year and are living with a disabling condition such as mental illness, addiction, or physical disabilities. Many of these individuals require professional assistance to transition off the streets. This year, our primary goal is to challenge and dispel preconceived notions about homelessness and the circumstances leading to it. Our campaign theme, 'First Walk in My Shoes,' aims to foster an understanding of deep-seated issues driving homelessness in South Africa while debunking myths, sharing solutions, and urging the public to walk a mile in the shoes of those living on the streets. Challenging the myths and offering solutions As part of the 'First Walk in My Shoes' campaign, MES will be working to debunk a common myth around homelessness. Homeless shelters are not a "pull factor" that encourages homelessness. In reality, shelters provide safety, necessities, and a path to rehabilitation. One good example of the difference MES shelters make is the Parow Centre of Hope. This is one of the MES flagship shelters that has significantly reduced crime rates and public complaints in its surrounding areas, proving that adequate shelters benefit individuals and communities. "By providing practical solutions such as shelters, rehabilitation programmes, and vocational training, we've seen firsthand how lives can be transformed. The evidence is clear – investing in sustainable solutions creates safer, healthier cities for everyone. We aim to inspire a shift in perspectives and advocate for systemic change." - Leona Pienaar, CEO of MES Get involved! MES calls on donors, businesses, and partners to support their youth and adult at-risk programmes, which are crucial to helping individuals transition off the streets and back into society. 07 to 20 October: National Shoe Drive Collect and donate new or gently used shoes and drop them off at any of our MES branches. 10 October: We've God Talent: World Homeless Day event final, MES Cape Town Join us for the 2024 We’ve God Talent Show, proudly hosted by VRCID. Beneficiaries of different shelters and organisations will showcase their talents! Acts will include singing, dancing, comedy, poetry recitals, playing instruments, drama, and more—performed individually or in groups. Date: 10 October 2024 Time: 10:00 a.m. Venue: To Be Confirmed 12 October: Park Run and Picnic at St. George's Park, MES Gqeberha Join us for a morning Park Run and a delightful picnic at the newly restored St. George’s Park. Support a variety of stalls on ...

MES is a proud beneficiary of KFC Add Hope

MES is a proud beneficiary of KFC Add Hope

MESsage from the Leona Pienaar, CEO of Mould Empower Serve I remember the first time we requested to become partners of KFC Add Hope. We felt right at home because we shared the same vision, passion, and heart for vulnerable children and families in South Africa. Since then, we've had so many beautiful moments, from the R2 artwork to the cycle tour through South Africa and one of our beneficiaries, Tebogo Mabye, being one of the faces of the campaign. Today, Tebogo is a contestant on MasterChef South Africa! We are celebrating KFC's 15th anniversary of Add Hope! Add Hope is KFC's initiative that encourages the nation's collective effort to fight malnutrition and hunger in South Africa. Through KFC contributions and your R2 donations, Add Hope feeds over 30 million nutritious meals to underprivileged children across South Africa. We are grateful that MES has been one of their 130 non-profit partners for 12 years. Your R2 donation helps us support our preschoolers, learners, and families at risk by providing much-needed nutritious meals and groceries to struggling families. We are deeply thankful to KFC and every individual who contributes to the campaign and adds hope to those in need. From MES, a heartfelt happy birthday to KFC Add Hope and all the staff who diligently request the public to contribute. I want to assure the public from a beneficiary's perspective that this is one of the most ethical, well-managed campaigns we have been involved in during my 30 years in the sector. Your contribution matters! Thank you, KFC Add Hope, for your innovation, commitment, and care! We had an amazing time celebrating KFC Add Hope's 15th birthday! To mark the occasion, our afterschool programme managers, co-ordinators and children visited local sites to express our gratitude to the KFC branches and their incredible staff for their dedication and hard work towards our programmes.

Unveiling hope through dance: The MES Dance4aPurpose programme

Unveiling hope through dance: The MES Dance4aPurpose programme

A look at the MES Dance4aPurpose and its latest production Why was the MES Dance 4 Purpose programme established, and how did the idea come about? The MES Dance4aPurpose programme was born from our street performances during our annual 10 Days of Hope outreach. We noticed a significant opportunity to extend our reach within the community and provide a message of hope to more kids and youth. The programme also serves a dual purpose: it keeps children engaged and off the streets on Saturdays, providing them with valuable skills and boosting their confidence. We’ve been running this programme since 2011, and its impact has been profoundly positive. This year will be our 12th production. Do the children who participate in the program have prior dance experience, or are they taught specifically for this production? Most of the children who join our program come with little to no prior dance experience. Some may have a natural talent, but the majority are here to learn something new. Whether or not they pursue dance professionally, they gain a sense of belonging and mastery through their participation. We aim to support those with exceptional talent who wish to make dance a career by connecting them with the right opportunities. Additionally, we aspire to expand our program to include various forms of art and performance. Can you give us a brief teaser about this year's production, "When Darkness Comes"? This year’s musical, "When Darkness Comes," delves into the themes of storms—both those we create ourselves and those that come regardless of our actions. It explores how we hold onto faith through these challenges. The production also examines the roles of earthly and heavenly fathers. The story follows Mpho, first as a teenager grappling with unexpected life changes and later as an adult facing life's storms. While the musical addresses weighty topics such as teenage pregnancy and the loss of a child, its central message remains one of hope. Who would enjoy watching this production? Our production is designed to resonate with teenagers, addressing their specific challenges, but it’s crafted to be enjoyable and meaningful for audiences of all ages. While the themes are particularly relevant to young adults, the message of hope and resilience is universal. 📍 Location: MES BG Hall, corner of Pietersen and Banket Street, Hillbrow 📅 Dates and Times: August 30: 16:00 and 18:30 August 31: 13:00 and 16:00 🎫 Entry Fee: Free of charge or a R10 donation

Mandela Day – A day of joy and community spirit

Mandela Day – A day of joy and community spirit

MES Mandela Day celebration news update Every day is a testament to God's grace and the kindness of our community at MES. Still, on Mandela Day, something extra special is in the air. It is a day when different individuals worldwide join hands to help those in need. In Johannesburg, a group of over 3500 people took to the streets of Hillbrow for clean-up activities under the guidance of JoziMyJozi, which included our Work Readiness (GROW) teams. Individuals also volunteered to spend their day engaging with our beneficiaries. They decorated cupcakes and shared meaningful conversations. Even malls joined in, making it convenient for shoppers to drop off donations. This collective effort resulted in a significant transformation of our community, a testament to the power of unity and compassion. In Cape Town, an elderly couple drove through a storm to donate their extra clothes, symbolising the spirit that defines Mandela Day. Despite challenging weather conditions across the country, our community still rallied with unwavering determination. The selflessness of the elderly, students, businesses, church groups, regular donors, and volunteers deeply moved us. The MES Gqeberha staff dedicated time to visiting Dora House, where they showed their support by distributing beanies and scarves to mothers and babies. At the same time, our Gqeberha Work Readiness (GROW) team undertook a much-needed clean-up project at North End Lake. The MES Kempton Park branch gives thanks to generous contributions of time, precious resources, and donations, which will go towards food and site upgrades. They sincerely thank everyone, businesses and friends, for their kindness and support. Another special thanks to the CPF Sector 5 for donating 100 jars of hope to celebrate Mandela Day. View more photos The benefactors of the day provided much-needed renovations to our premises. Participants shared beautiful stories, testimonies, and words of encouragement with one another. Former MES beneficiaries who now work with MES shared touching moments and have become the voices of our organisation today. Many who came to support pledged to remain connected with MES and committed to continuing their efforts to change the heart of the city. We would like to give a huge thank you to our staff across the country. We appreciate your heart, unwavering dedication, sacrifices, and contributions daily. Thank you to the social workers unpacking delicate stories, the caretakers working tirelessly through the night, the leaders guiding us forward, the fundraisers ensuring we have the resources, the financial team managing the numbers, and the general workers serving. Every single staff member plays a vital role in our mission. The success of Mandela Day is a testament to your hard work and passion. We couldn't do it without you. At MES, something extraordinary keeps one coming back. Despite the challenges of serving others, every moment is meaningful and worthwhile. Let us celebrate today's achievements and embark on tomorrow's journey together, knowing that with God's grace and our community's support, we can continue to bring hope and ...

Spend your 67 minutes with MES on Mandela Day

Spend your 67 minutes with MES on Mandela Day

You are invited to join us for Mandela Day on 18 July Mandela Day is an annual global celebration that takes place on 18 July to honour the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela. As Mandela Day approaches, a profound opportunity exists to make a difference. MES would like to invite you to come and spend your 67 minutes with us in honour of Mandela's 67 years of sacrifice to better the lives of others. Every minute counts, whether lending a helping hand at a local shelter, delivering donations, or engaging in meaningful conversations. Even the smallest gesture of kindness can significantly impact someone's life. We welcome anyone interested in getting involved and helping us serve our vulnerable inner-city communities. Our Johannesburg, Kempton Park, Cape Town, and Gqeberha branches will celebrate Mandela Day on 18 July 2024. Different activities will take place at our various branches. To find out more, book your slot, or explore ways to Change the heart of the city with MES during Mandela month, please contact us at: Johannesburg: suzan@mes.org.za Kempton Park: luwanda@mes.org.za Cape Town: cptfundraising@mes.org.za Gqeberha: ronny@mes.org.za Please note that donations may be dropped off at different locations between 08:00 – 16:00, Monday to Friday, from 15 to 19 July. To make alternative arrangements, please contact your nearest branch. Click here for more information and branch needs lists

Spread hope and warmth with MES this winter season!

Spread hope and warmth with MES this winter season!

WinterHope, 01 – 30 June 2024 – Extended until the end of July! Join us in our mission to spread hope and warmth this winter season. Your act of kindness could be the light that someone needs in these cold and dark times. What is the WinterHope initiative? WinterHope is a collective initiative that is a beacon of warmth and support dedicated to aiding our most vulnerable communities during the chilling winter months. Our mission revolves around gathering essential items such as warm clothing, blankets, and nourishing food supplies to instil HOPE in those who face challenges in caring for themselves and their loved ones during this season. WinterHope has evolved into a formidable partnership of compassion and generosity for over twenty years. Our collaborative efforts span the nation and are orchestrated by prominent organisations, including MES (serving Johannesburg, Kempton Park, Gqeberha, and Cape Town), PEN (based in Pretoria), Towers of Hope (operating in Bloemfontein), and His Hands (located in Durban). If our mission resonates with you, we invite you to join us in making a difference. Your support will empower us to continue spreading warmth and hope to those in need. Together, we can make a meaningful impact this winter season. CLICK HERE TO GET INVOLVED We appreciate everyone's support in 2023. Follow our WinterHope journey! Regular updates will be shared below. In the news! Sharing the WinterHope message with media. THIS INITIATIVE IS MANAGED BY: AND SUPPORTED BY: