On 25 August 2023, an energetic crowd of 6 057 individuals, spanning across families, friends, and participants, gathered in Green Point for a common purpose: to confront childhood hunger head-on. The event was none other than the 55th annual Blisters for Bread event, organized by the Peninsula School Feeding Association (PSFA) in collaboration with Lucky Star – The Barefoot Edition, an initiative that saw numerous attendees courageously embracing the barefoot challenge.
Amid the enchanting backdrop of the Sea Point Promenade, the event featured two walking categories, 5km and 10km routes. The collective efforts of these participants, both in terms of entry fees and heartfelt contributions, amounted to a remarkable sum of R581 877.00.
The entirety of this fund will be channelled by PSFA to provide a year’s worth of nourishing breakfasts and lunches for 939 underprivileged schoolchildren, effectively combating the persistent issue of childhood poverty.
Distinguished officials from the Western Cape Government and City of Cape Town lent their support to this noble cause, including Premier Alan Winde, Education MEC David Maynier, Cultural Affairs & Sport MEC Anroux Marais, and Deputy Mayor Eddie Andrews. Notable corporate leaders like Neville Brink, the CEO of The Oceana Group, Lourens de Waal, Managing Director of Lucky Star, and Brian Benatar, Chairman of PSFA, also took part in the event.
The finishing moments of the event were marked by participants crossing the finish line, receiving their well-earned medals, and being treated to complimentary refreshments courteously provided by Coca-Cola Peninsula Beverages. The walkers were treated to a live concert featuring top South African singers Sayde Fillis, Krista Mafakala Jonas, and Nur Abrahams. The presentation was guided by Heart FM presenter Jeremy Harris, who added his own charm to the event.
Petrina Pakoe, the Director of PSFA, extended gratitude towards individuals, corporations, and entities that played a pivotal role in ensuring the resounding success of the 55th Blisters for Bread Charity Family Fun Walk.
She lauded the event as a shining example of the positive change that can be brought about when a community comes together for a common cause. “By raising funds to feed impoverished schoolchildren, this event will not only fill hungry tummies, but also nurture hope, unity, and the belief in the power of collective efforts to transform lives.”
The resounding success of the 55th Blisters for Bread has set the stage for its 2024 edition, scheduled for Sunday, 25 August 2024.
