MTN extends helping hand to survivors of Pieter Wessels Home fire

Issued by MTN
Johannesburg, Aug 10, 2010

MTN has donated paraphernalia of warm clothing valued at over R200 000 to the elderly residents whose facility, the Pieter Wessels Frail Care & Community Centre, in Nigel, outside Johannesburg, was gutted by fire earlier this week.

MTN was touched by reports that 18 elderly residents died and 84 were left destitute after a fire razed their residence on Sunday.

In a bid to alleviate the plight of the residents, MTN donated warm clothing comprising thermal garments, jackets, blankets, beanies, scarves and trousers to the shocked survivors whose horrifying ordeal has left the country reeling.

Says Nozipho January-Bardill, MTN Group Corporate Affairs Executive and Spokesperson: “MTN sympathises with the people and families affected by this tragedy. As an extension of our Y'ello Care spirit, we would like to present a donation that will hopefully contribute to current efforts to support the affected elderly citizens.”

Acknowledging MTN's contribution, Meals on Wheels Community Services spokesperson, Elaine Coetzee, said: “On behalf of the administration and residents of Pieter Wessels Frail Care & Community Centre, we take this opportunity in a very traumatic time to express our deep and sincere appreciation to MTN. We know that the senior citizens who have experienced this trauma will deeply appreciate MTN's kindness and generosity.”

Pieter Wessels Frail Care & Community Centre is an affiliate of Meals on Wheels Community Services.