The Winter Drive 2026 Campaign in the Eastern KZN Division, under the theme “Warm Hearts, Strong Communities,” was busy but highly successful. The campaign began during the week, with most Corps providing meals for schoolchildren. On Saturday, the Corps were out in their communities to mark the day, engage with local residents, and strengthen community connections.
Beyond feeding schoolchildren during the week, Catherine Booth Corps distributed food parcels and warm blankets to five particularly vulnerable families. One family had lost their home to a fire during the week and, with it, many of their possessions, including food and kitchen items. Another was a child-headed household, with the eldest sibling, aged 19, caring for six siblings and four other related children. The Divisional Leaders joined the Corps Officers in these door-to-door visits. It was both a humbling and encouraging experience to witness the families’ responses to the visits, prayers, and practical support provided through the food parcels.
More than 800 schoolchildren received warm meals during the week, contributing to nearly 850 people being reached through the Winter Drive Campaign.
Evutha Corps’ outreach took place in the streets of Evutha, near the local primary school. Through the dedication, generosity, and hard work of Corps members, meals were prepared and pairs of socks collected for distribution to community members. The initiative was a great success, with approximately 400 people, including schoolchildren, receiving a warm meal and a pair of socks. The community responded with heartfelt appreciation and gratitude for the care, compassion, and support shown through this meaningful outreach programme.
Huletts Corps served hot dogs, drinks, a piece of chicken, and fruit to Grade R learners at Maqumbi Primary School, reaching 92 children. The principal of the school later sent a letter of gratitude to the Corps, expressing appreciation for this “great initiative.” KwaDukuza Corps purchased 50 jerseys and 50 pairs of socks and prepared soup for homeless people in Stanger. Even after the socks and jerseys had all been distributed, the Corps continued serving soup and tea to those in need. The Traffic Department assisted with maintaining order throughout the outreach. It was a successful initiative that reached more than 100 people.
Kwa-Msane Corps visited an orphanage, donating care packs containing toiletries for the children, along with non-perishable food items and cooking supplies to assist with meals. The soldiers also spent time playing with the children. The matron of the orphanage wrote: “Thank you for arranging the gifts for the children, each one helping with a specific need. We thank the Lord for opening your hearts to show the children how He can love them through the kindness of others.”
Mandeni Corps visited a SASSA collection point at the nearby Boxer store parking area. They focused on pensioners who had come to collect their grants and who were initially hesitant to accept food from strangers. However, a few people familiar with the work and ministry of The Salvation Army accepted the warm meals, encouraging others to do the same. Soon more people joined and expressed their appreciation for the food provided. Even some working individuals in the area, who initially felt they did not require assistance, gratefully received the meals and thanked the soldiers for their kindness and encouragement. The Corps also incorporated Child Protection awareness into the outreach. For some community members, it was their first experience of seeing The Salvation Army serving in the area and learning that a Salvation Army Corps was present in their community.
Estill Corps also provided meals for schoolchildren and distributed food parcels to vulnerable families. Esikhaleni Corps was active at Esikhawini Mall, distributing warm clothing and tinned food while sharing the Gospel and demonstrating the love of God in practical ways.
Throughout the Division, Salvationists beautifully lived out The Salvation Army’s motto, “Heart to God and Hand to Man,” bringing glory to God through their service. The needs within our communities remain significant. People are facing hardship and suffering, and the words, “They need you, they need me, they need Christ,” could not be more relevant. It is our desire to encourage every unit within the Division to continue this ministry throughout the year, because need knows no season.