Nando’s heartwarming winter campaign, the Hot Plot, delivered 5,000 hot meals to various beneficiaries across South Africa, spreading warmth, compassion, and nourishment to those in need.
Johannesburg, South Africa (23 August 2023) – As the sun begins to peek through the chilly winter clouds, we can’t help but look back at a heartwarming campaign that defrosted the cold season for thousands of individuals across South Africa.
In a world that often feels too focused on the hustle and bustle, Nando’s took a step back to remind us of the importance of kindness and community through their remarkable Hot Plot campaign.
Winter can be an unforgiving season, especially for those who lack a roof over their heads. Nando’s, renowned for their flavourful flame-grilled PERi-PERi chicken, recognised this need and decided to warm up the winter with their campaign, which saw the distribution of 5,000 hotpots and soups to various beneficiaries across the nation.
The Hot Plot initiative held hands with organisations like the North-West University (NWU), Queen’s Haven, Odirile for Disabled Children, Tshwaraganang Children’s Homes, Sultan Bahu Community Centre, and Kleintreetjies Kleuterskool. The range of beneficiaries illustrates Nando’s commitment to touching lives across diverse segments of society.
At NWU, 125 hearty meals were prepared by the passionate team at Nando’s Mafikeng and thoughtfully handed over to Mega Care Solution and the University Management. These meals became a beacon of hope for students grappling with adversity, a gesture that didn’t go unnoticed. Mrs L J Maralack, a central figure in coordinating the effort, couldn’t help but express her gratitude on Mmabatho FM.
In the south of Johannesburg, Queen’s Haven, a home for the elderly, was greeted with warmth from Nando’s Rosettenville. 100 hot pot meals not only eased the winter chill but also provided comfort to those who, for various reasons, find themselves away from their families. Matron Naomi and her team were overwhelmed by Nando’s generosity, further solidifying the brand’s role as a compassionate member of the community.
But Nando’s didn’t stop there; their generosity extended to shelters like The Haven Night Shelter, The Salvation Army, and The Gift of the Givers Foundation, bringing warmth and nourishment to those who often go unnoticed on the streets. These shelters, which provide a lifeline to individuals who have nowhere else to turn, saw Nando’s deliver meals that extended far beyond mere sustenance.
Nando’s Jubilee embraced their commitment to giving by providing 60 hot pot meals to Odirile for Disabled Children. This organisation’s mission is to care for the terminally ill and offers rehabilitation assistance, and Nando’s presence brought both smiles and sustenance. Duduzile, a Nandoca from Nando’s Jubilee, recognised Nando’s potential to rally support for even broader causes, echoing the sentiment of unity that Nando’s embodies.
Tshwaraganang Children’s Homes, another recipient of Nando’s benevolence, welcomed 60 hot pot meals from Nando’s Jubilee. The organisation, which stands as a pillar of support for orphaned and vulnerable children, experienced a heartwarming moment as these children, who rarely experience take-out meals, enjoyed a taste of Nando’s goodness. Dudu, a part of Nando’s Jubilee, shed light on the ongoing challenges faced by this shelter, which not only supports over 50 children but also offers refuge for the elderly and those affected by gender-based violence.
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The Sultan Bahu Community Centre, supported by Nando’s Fordsburg, embraced the warmth of Nando’s meals with open arms. Children from an orphanage under the centre’s care experienced a burst of joy as they indulged in nourishing food provided by the big-hearted brand. The Sultan Bahu Community Centre’s commitment to aiding those in need resonated deeply with Nando’s Fordsburg’s Operations Manager, creating a union that epitomises the power of collaboration.
Last but certainly not least, Nando’s Eldoraigne spread its heartwarming message to Kleintreetjies Kleuterskool. The daycare, a haven for over 120 children from underprivileged backgrounds, witnessed a ray of light as Nando’s delivered 130 hot pot meals. Abdul and his fellow Nandoca team members donned their capes of compassion to ensure that these children’s winter became a little warmer and brighter.
Nando’s Hot Plot campaign was not just about food; it was about kindling the fire of compassion and community. By extending their warmth and care to 5,000 hearts and tummies, Nando’s reaffirmed their commitment to the belief that they are not just about chicken; they are about people first.
As the seasons shift and we bid farewell to winter, let’s hold on to the warmth Nando’s shared and remember that even in the coldest times, kindness has the power to thaw even the frostiest of hearts.
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