On Saturday, 6 June 2026, the Northern KwaZulu-Natal Division joined the entire Southern Africa Territory in launching the 2026 Winter Relief Campaign. Our guests from Territorial Headquarters included Captain Memani, while officers, soldiers, and local volunteers from various Corps and circuits participated in outreach activities within their respective communities. Through acts of compassion, practical assistance, and spiritual ministry, many lives were touched during this important initiative.
Vryheid Corps
Vryheid Corps conducted its Winter Relief Campaign at the location where the Home League regularly ministers to men and women gathered in the industrial area seeking employment opportunities. On the day, the Corps provided warm meals to 56 men and women and distributed 30 blankets to those in need. Following the feeding programme, officers and volunteers visited a family in the Bhekuzulu community whose home had recently been destroyed by fire. Through the support of Divisional Headquarters (DHQ) and Territorial Headquarters (THQ), the family received groceries, sleeping sponges, a stove, and cooking pots. They also shared in the meal prepared during the outreach.
Ezakheni Corps
Ezakheni Corps prepared bread, beef-bone soup, and collected clothing items for distribution. Through this ministry, 125 members of the community received a warm meal and practical support. This act of kindness was deeply appreciated by those who benefited from the programme.
Madadeni Corps
Madadeni Corps also participated by preparing warm meals and feeding 71 members of the community. The outreach was warmly received by those served. One woman expressed her gratitude, saying she had no food to eat and that The Salvation Army had come at exactly the right time. The Corps leadership further committed themselves to exploring ways of sustaining this feeding programme as an ongoing ministry to those in need within their community.
Gwegwede Circuit
Gwegwede Circuit participated in the Winter Relief Campaign by visiting Intuthuko Special School, which serves children living with disabilities. Approximately 200 children received warm scarves, bread, and nourishing soup. This outreach was a beautiful expression of Christ’s love in action, as volunteers served as His hands and feet within the community. Throughout the day, volunteers ministered with joy and compassion. Warm soup and bread were distributed to the children. The smiles and gratitude displayed by the learners reflected the significance of receiving these essential winter provisions.
Emahhashini Circuit
Emahhashini Circuit conducted two outreach activities during the Winter Relief Campaign. Firstly, they visited Emahhashini Crèche, where 22 children were provided with meals. The team also facilitated child protection awareness sessions and engaged the children through games and recreational activities. Secondly, they ministered to matric learners attending a study camp at Mphumuzuzulu High School. A meal was shared with 153 learners, and the circuit donated two school shirts and two pairs of grey trousers to support needy students. The team also shared a message on child protection and offered a devotion based on Psalm 23:1, encouraging the learners during their June examination period. A special time of prayer was held for the students as they continued with their academic commitments.
Community leaders and beneficiaries from the various areas expressed sincere appreciation to The Salvation Army for remembering them during the winter season. The Northern KwaZulu-Natal Division is grateful to Territorial Headquarters, officers, local leaders, soldiers, volunteers, and all donors whose support made these initiatives possible.
The 2026 Winter Relief Campaign once again demonstrated that through practical service and compassionate ministry, The Salvation Army continues to bring hope, dignity, and the love of Christ to those in need. “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink…” (Matthew 25:35).