News Bulletin of 12 June 2026, 2pm

The St George’s Village Pins and Needles Group in Bedfordview has surpassed its goal for the 67 Blankets for Mandela Day campaign, knitting 111 blankets by June 4 after aiming for 67 by July 17.
The blankets were made by 48 village residents, with support from family and friends. Project pioneer Ingrid Munnik said she was surprised by the group’s achievement.
Village manager Kerry Mans said the blankets will be donated to a special home for babies and teenagers, Elandsvallei Retirement Village and other organisations.

The Smile Foundation has helped change the lives of 173 children in the past six months through its Smile Week Programme.
The initiative funds surgeries for children with conditions such as cleft lips, cleft palates and facial paralysis, restoring health, dignity and confidence.
One case highlighted is 12-year-old Eugene, who underwent an 11-hour facial reanimation surgery that allows him to express emotions for the first time.

A Mayibuye woman who has spent the past three years feeding vulnerable residents has received support to continue her community initiative.
Relebohile Evelyn Thapelo prepares warm, nutritious meals for homeless people, unemployed residents and others facing food insecurity. Her efforts received a boost after Halls donated a gas stove and cooking pots to help her serve more people.
Thapelo says her mission is simple: no one should go to bed hungry. What began as a once-a-month initiative has grown into a trusted source of support for many residents, especially during the winter months.