The Brighton Beach Beanie Project, which involves elders knitting gifts of love and warmth, was born from a shared desire to make a difference in the lives of children born into harsh circumstances and often lack the most basic necessities.

Durban, South Africa (21 October 2024) – Children born into challenging circumstances are a heartbreaking reality that local police officers run into way too often in the call of duty.

Moved by this, members of the Brighton Beach Police Station in Durban, along with compassionate local senior citizens, have united to form a community-based beanie project.

The Brighton Beach Beanie Project, organised by members of the Brighton Beach Police, has brought together elderly residents from across the eThekwini District who volunteer their time and talents to knit and crochet cosy clothing for these children.

With nimble fingers and hearts full of love, they have poured their souls into each stitch, creating not just garments but symbols of warmth and care.

“These skilled individuals are showcasing their talents in knitting and crocheting by creating beautiful beanies and clothing items as gifts for vulnerable children,” shared Captain Louise Le Roux of Brighton Beach SAPS.

Since its inception, the project has distributed over 1,832 beanies to organisations such as the Wentworth Hospital, Wentworth Victim Friendly Centre, Bluff Assist, Shepherd’s Keep, Journey of Hope, and Isaiah 554 Children’s Sanctuary.

Durban has been unusually cold and wet lately and just last week the beanie project was honoured to gift beautifully knitted newborn baby booties and baby slippers created by the skilled knitters and crocheters to the Wentworth hospital.

“In addition, 185 multiple-sized beanies were also gifted and the project team will continue to receive labours of love ensuring every beanie is homed,” added Le Roux.

Sources: Brighton Beach SAPS

Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google. 

Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

The post Brighton Beach Police and Seniors Come Together to Knit Warmth for Vulnerable Children appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Imagine spending the holidays alone, with no visitors and no gifts. For many elderly people residing in old age homes, this is a heartbreaking reality. But, you can help bring them a little cheer this Christmas.

Durban, South Africa (20 October 2024) – Oftentimes, when we talk about spreading the magic and joy of Christmas, it is about children, overlooking that our oldies could also do with some spoils and love too!

Playing their part to make sure our grannies and grandpas in old age homes don’t get left out in the cold, is the Robin Hood Foundation through its annual Bless a Granny & Grandpa campaign.

Every year the campaign fulfils over 2,500 wishes of the elderly people in homes, bringing love, joy and care to those often forgotten.

As the season of giving approaches, the foundation reminds us that giving is not just about donating but more about making a difference.

“For many, the Bless a Granny & Grandpa visits are not just a highlight of their year—it is often the only moment of warmth and connection they experience.

“Imagine, for a moment, receiving just one gift all year, or having only one visitor walk through your door. That is the reality for so many elderly individuals we care for,” the foundation shared.

But this year, you can be the light that brightens their day, by offering a hand that offers not just a present as well as a sense of belonging.

The campaign will bring warmth to 18 old age homes in and around Durban.

“Each visit will be a morning filled with tea, treats, laughter, and, most importantly, the heartfelt gifts that you help provide.”

How to make a wish come true

To make an oldie’s wish come true, all you need to do is make a pledge on how many grannies or grandpas you’d like to buy a Christmas gift for by emailing info@ronbinhoodfoundation.co.za

From there, you will receive an email with the grannies/grandpas’ names, their wishlist, printable tags with details and a delivery date.

Thereafter you can shop for the item(s) to the value of R250-R300 and place it in a gift bag with the tags provided.

Lastly, you can deliver or drop off the gifts at the various Durban drop-off points.

• CGA Agencies (235 Underwood Road, Pinetown)
• Broadway Pharmacy (5 Swapo Road, Durban North)
• Wool ‘n Weave (Lillies Quarter, Old Main Road, Hillcrest)
• Dormehl Phalane Real Estate (8 Old Main Road, Gillits)
• -Washwell Granada Laundry (16 Chartwell Drive, Umhlanga)

For more information contact Charlotte at info@robinhoodfoundation.co.za

Sources: The Robin Hood Foundation

Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google. 

Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

The post Don’t Forget Granny and Grandpa This Christmas, Spread Some Joy to Seniors in Need appeared first on Good Things Guy.

The Langkloof Orphanage has undergone a remarkable transformation, breathing new life into the sanctuary for AIDS orphans and vulnerable children.

Drakensberg, South Africa (18 October 2024) – Situated amidst the breathtaking scenery of the Northern Drakensberg, the Langkloof Orphanage, a sanctuary for AIDS orphans and vulnerable children, recently underwent a remarkable transformation.

Established in 2001 as a refuge for 50 AIDS orphans, the orphanage has evolved into a thriving space, complete with a fully-equipped kitchen, electricity, running water, flushing toilets, a creche, and a primary school.

The recent refurbishment has breathed new life into the orphanage’s facilities. Once characterised by worn-out walls and peeling paint, the space now exudes a vibrant and inviting atmosphere.

During the highly anticipated unveiling in the first week of October 2024, joy and excitement filled the air as the children and caregivers of the home explored their newly renovated surroundings.

Other sustainable initiatives were introduced to the new and improved orphanage. These include the establishment of a hydroponic system to grow fresh herbs and vegetables, the provision of two daily meals for 55 children, supporting staff and encouraging community action by appealing for donations towards the orphanage’s operations.

The Langkloof Orphanage stands as a symbol of resilience, compassion, and the power of community. With the continued support of Little Switzerland Resort, its main benefactor and Touching Dreams, the non-profit that sponsored of the renovations, this safe space will continue to touch many lives.

“When I recently took over the management of Langkloof, it was clear there was a lot of maintenance required. I reached out to Little Switzerland’s new general manager, Gerhard van den Heever, for support and he quickly got Touching Dreams and various hotel team members on board to work on a full refurbishment,” says Maria Mkhonza, Langkloof’s caretaker and principal.

Mkhonza expressed her gratitude to the maintenance lead, Justin Liebenberg, who coordinated everything; none of this would have been possible without all his hard work. Gerhard, and his assistant property custodian, Shalom Mashiri, were also actively involved.

“It’s been amazing to see the dedication from this group of people over the last few months,” says Mkhonza.

“Our support of Langkloof Orphanage is a perfect example of the kind of work we aim to do as an organisation and aligns with our mission at Dream Hotels and Resorts to have a positive impact on the communities in which our properties operate,” says Chris Godenir, General Manager of Dream Hotels and Resorts’ Peninsula All-Suite Hotel and Touching Dreams Ambassador.

Sources: Supplied

Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google. 

Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

The post Langkloof Orphanage Gets a New Lease on Life Thanks to Major Makeover appeared first on Good Things Guy.

From pet food donations to monetary contributions, the Kloof and Highway SPCA has been overwhelmed by the generosity of the community which has made their invaluable work possible.

Kloof, South Africa (17 October 2024) – With a heart filled with thanksgiving, the Kloof and Highway SPCA recently took to social media to thank its selfless supporters for continuously pouring into their cup.

The animal rescue recently acknowledged and thanked everyone who generously donates to their worthy cause which serves as a lifeline to countless animals in need.

“Often those who donate and help the most never ask for a ‘thank you’. We want you to know how much we appreciate your support always,” the organisation said.

The SPCA’s staff and volunteers have also been working tirelessly to spruce up the space and tea garden, creating a haven for animals, a place where they can find love, care, and a second chance at life.

“Our dog walkers have ensured that our goats have an enrichment area, and some volunteers helped do a garden in our Village Green.

“We have also had some wonderful students come and do community service and help us too. Donated plants are sold in our nursery, and your unwanted donated goods keep our charity shops stocked.”

Whether it be through donating unwanted household goods, pet food, volunteering or monetary donations, none of these developments would be possible without the generosity and kindness of animal lovers who don’t think twice about supporting the incredible work of assisting vulnerable animals.

To learn more about how you can support the Kloof and Highway SPCA call 031 764 1212.

Sources: Kloof and Highway SPCA

Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google. 

Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

The post Animal Lovers Making a Difference: Kloof SPCA Expresses Gratitude to Generous Supporters appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Breast cancer is rife and prevalent in 1 out of 26 women, but fear should not paralyse us. Regular self and clinical examinations are proactive steps to identify any changes or irregularities in our breasts.

KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (16 October 2024) – October paints the world pink as we commemorate Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

It’s a time to remember those who have battled and continue to battle this dreadful disease and to honour the survivors who have emerged victorious.

CANSA KwaZulu-Natal echoes the widespread call for increased awareness, examinations, education, and support for those affected by breast cancer.

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in women of all races, with a lifetime risk of 1 in 26 in South Africa, according to the 2022 National Cancer Registry (NCR).

Reducing risk through regular self and clinical examinations is a proactive approach to checking whether there are any changes and irregularities in your breasts.

Self Breast Examinations

According to CANSA, not all breast lumps indicate cancer, but it’s important to have them checked, especially if there are other changes in the breasts or underarm area.

These changes may include lumps, texture changes, thickening, dimpling, changes in the shape or size of the nipples or breasts, tenderness, discharge, rash or swelling, or one breast suddenly being slightly larger than the other.

“Research has shown that a regular Breast Self-Examination (BSE), plays an important role in discovering breast cancer, compared to finding a breast lump by chance.

“A BSE should be done once a month, preferably at the same time of day, following a woman’s menstrual cycle,” CANSA states.

Clinical Breast Examinations

A Clinical Breast Examination (CBE) is a visual and manual examination of the entire breast, from the collarbone to the bra line, and from the armpit to the breast bone. It is advisable to have a CBE as part of your annual medical check-up.

CANSA confirms that women are entitled to an annual clinical breast examination when visiting primary healthcare centres (according to the National Department of Health’s Breast Cancer Control Policy).

If any abnormalities are detected, you will be referred for further testing by a medical professional.

The CANSA Community

CANSA has dedicated resources to help those navigating the journey of metastatic breast cancer, as well as active support groups that connect cancer patients with survivors, loved ones, and caregivers.

These platforms remind those affected by breast cancer that they don’t need to go through the turbulent journey alone. They provide a safe space where women can share their experiences, find solace, and draw inspiration from one another.

For more information, visit CANSA Support Groups or call 0800 22 6622.

Sources: Cancer Association of South Africa KZN

Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google. 

Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

The post Early Detection is Key: CANSA Urges Women to Prioritise Breast Health appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Now, it is not every day you get to stumble upon a majestic Southern Elephant Seal in KZN! Local beachgoers were thrilled to encounter this gentle giant, who seemed to be enjoying some R&R under the sun.

KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (14 October 2024) – A rare and unexpected visitor – a juvenile yet very robust Southern Elephant Seal swam ashore at Rocky Bay Beach on the KwaZulu-Natal south coast last Thursday, much to the delight and adoration of many local beachgoers.

The uShaka Sea World team, led by Senior Aquarist Rob Kyle, Assistant Curator Bilal Limbada, and Veterinarian Dr Francois Lampen, wasted no time rushing to the beach to assist the stranded seal. His strength and location earned him the adorable name “Rocky”.

According to the South African Association for Marine Biological Research (SAAMBR), these seals are not normally found along the KZN coastline, which is about 2,000km from their home.

“Usually, when seals strand on KZN beaches with obvious injuries, they are brought into our rehabilitation facility for treatment, and then released.

“When Rocky was examined on the beach by Dr Lampen, he appeared to be healthy and had possibly hauled out onto the beach to rest after his long swim,” SAAMBR said.

After a thorough assessment, Rocky was given the green light to be released to a quieter beach to continue resting without interruption.

He was also fitted with a flipper tag, which, if seen in the future, will allow the team to monitor his movements and correctly identify him in both the short and long term.

While irresistibly adorable to any animal lover, the SAAMBR emphasised the importance of being mindful that juvenile Elephant seals found on the beach, where they enjoy rest, can be dangerous if approached.

“If you see Rocky on the beach, please keep your distance and allow him to rest. If you are able to see the tag on his hind flipper, please stay at least 5 meters away from him to take a picture and send it to us on any of our social platforms.”

Sources: South African Association for Marine Biological Research

Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google. 

Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

The post Stunning Rare Southern Elephant Seal “Rocky” Delights KZN Beachgoers! appeared first on Good Things Guy.

In a daring rescue operation, snake enthusiasts Jason Arnold and Nick Evans ventured beneath a busy road in KwaZulu-Natal to save three Southern African pythons.

KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (11 October 2024) – KwaZulu-Natal snake enthusiast Jason Arnold dropped everything and headed straight to his “Snake Man Machine” when he received a call about three Southern African pythons that were spotted near a busy roadside.

Handling three pythons is no small job, which prompted Arnold to get some assistance from fellow snake rescuer Nick Evans.

In a video, the trained handlers, Arnold and Evans are seen at the scene where construction workers were working near a busy road when they saw the snakes in question.

Although they couldn’t find the snakes, the brave men returned the following day to continue the search for the serpents as they were in a place where their safety was greatly compromised.

After numerous and tiresome efforts, including the assistance of a TLB to dig the ground to better access the snakes, the rescuers eventually spotted the anxious snakes nestled underground before they safely removed them.

“This was such an awesome rescue to be involved in! A strange place to find pythons. The construction workers had spotted the two small males and a larger female.

“The rescue required a lot of patience, and then a lot of hard work. But it was so, so worth it,” said Evans who assured that snakes were released in a safer habitat.

Sources: Jason Arnold / Nick Evans

Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google. 

Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

The post KZN Snake Rescuers Brave Busy Freeway to Rescue Python Trio Underneath Roadside Den appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Primary pupils from KZN schools in the Newcastle area gathered for some competitive literacy fun at a Reading for Meaning competition aimed at addressing the concerning statistics of many African learners struggling with comprehension.

Newcastle, South African (10 October 2024) – The Newcastle Town Hall was a frenzy of competitive fun and learning as local school children participated in the Reading for Meaning competition on Tuesday, 8 October.

While reading is a valuable skill, understanding the underlying message of a text is equally important, if not more so. Unfortunately, many primary school children face challenges in comprehending what they read.

The event aimed to foster a love of reading and comprehension, especially among learners who struggle with reading skills.

The educational event was supported by the Department of Sport, Arts, and Culture with local libraries, including Newcastle Municipality Library and Dannhauser Library.

The competition featured participation from several schools, including Khethokuhle Primary School, Vumelani Primary School, Dannhauser Primary School, and Dannhauser Secondary School.

According to the Newcastle Municipality, pupils competed in both IsiZulu and English categories, demonstrating their reading, comprehension, and spelling abilities by reading aloud, summarising stories and spelling three words each.

The winners in the IsiZulu category were Khethokuhle Primary School, Dannhauser Combined School and Vumelani Primary School.

The English category winners were Dannhauser Combined School, Dannhauser Primary School and Dannhauser Combined School

The top winners from this competition will have the opportunity to advance to the provincial level, showcasing their reading and comprehension skills on a larger stage and we’re so excited to see how they will perform next.

Sources: Newcastle Municipality 

Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google. 

Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

The post Newcastle Schools Ignite Literacy Passion at Reading for Meaning Competition appeared first on Good Things Guy.

The Green Youth Environmental Solution organisation members are inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards through their hands-on initiatives like gardening.

Pietermaritzburg, South Africa (10 October 2024) – Planting and bringing life to the soil lies at the very heart and purpose of the Green Youth Environmental Solution non-profit organisation.

Earlier this month, a team rolled up their sleeves to prepare to plant a garden at Fezokuhle Primary School in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal.

Nourishing vegetables such as spinach and onions will be planted in the school’s garden with the assistance of the children who attend the organisation’s theory lessons. This hands-on experience will help them understand the process and prepare for the future.

By exploring the wonders of the natural world, children develop a deep connection, appreciation and respect for the environment, fostering a lifelong commitment to its preservation.

The vegetable garden planting initiative is just one of the various ways that the Green Youth Environmental Solution is committed to teaching children in primary schools about the importance of taking care of the environment and the value of gardening.

Sources: Green Youth Environmental Solution

Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google. 

Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

The post Green Youth Environmentalists Inspire Primary Pupils to Connect With Nature appeared first on Good Things Guy.

Through its recent community event, the KZN Cycling Development Trust brought joy and the opportunity to thrive in the sport of cycling to the young people of Mpumalanga township and eThekwini.

KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (09 October 2024) – Sport is not only fun and a great way to stay active, but it can also play a crucial role in helping youth in underserved communities. It can be instrumental in helping them foster healthy relationships, develop their skills, as well as open doors to a wealth of opportunities that they might otherwise miss out on.

Operating from this perspective is the KZN Cycling Development Trust, which invited 200 young riders from Mpumalanga township as well as riders from the eThekwini Mini Hubs programme to participate in a community event at Zaminhlanhla Primary School recently.

Supported by their families and community leaders, the youth enjoyed the thrill of cycling together and healthy competition. The top-performing riders were included in an HP training camp the following day.

Through such initiatives, the KZN Cycling Development Trust not only introduces young riders to the sport but also identifies talented riders who are then trained to graduate to a Higher Performance Squad.

This squad receives additional and more focused coaching, which prepares them to compete in a variety of high-level events – ultimately paving the way for a brighter future for our youth!

“As these riders improve, they will start to be exposed to more regular mainstream competition, and who knows, the next world beater may have started their journey this weekend,” the trust said in a post.

Sources: KZN Cycling Development Trust

Don’t ever miss the Good Things. Download the Good Things Guy App now on Apple or Google. 

Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook & Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes & hear their incredible stories:

Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

The post KZN Cycling Development Trust Empowers Over 200 Township Youth at Cycling Event appeared first on Good Things Guy.