This Mandela Day, Signature of Hope Trust is proud to be part of something that speaks directly to the kind of action we believe in: practical, purposeful, and felt by those who need it most.

In partnership with FOUR PAWS South Africa, we are sponsoring 67 warm, weatherproof kennels for community dogs in Khayelitsha, as part of a combined effort that will see 134 dogs receive shelter and comfort before the worst of winter sets in. FOUR PAWS is matching that number, sponsoring a further 67 kennels alongside over 670 care packs, through Mdzananda Animal Clinic and Shelter, the only veterinary clinic and animal shelter serving the Khayelitsha community, and one that has been doing so for 30 years.

For many of these dogs, the kennel they receive this week will be the first real protection they have ever had against the cold. That matters to us. At Signature of Hope Trust, our Planet pillar is about more than wildlife conservation. It is about recognising that the wellbeing of animals and the wellbeing of communities are deeply connected. In a township like Khayelitsha, where families face extraordinary pressures, the dogs that share their lives often face those pressures too.

You can still be part of this

Mdzananda is opening their doors on Friday 17 July and Saturday 18 July, inviting supporters to take a guided tour of the clinic and shelter, meet the team, and see the work firsthand. If you have ever wanted to understand what happens behind the scenes at one of Cape Town’s most dedicated animal welfare organisations, this is your opportunity to spend your 67 Mandela Day minutes somewhere that will stay with you.

To book your tour slot, contact Kelly at fund@mdzananda.co.za.