By Nangamso Mabindla
11 December 2007

BUFFALO City's first citizen brought some festive cheer to 300 children who will be spending their Christmas in hospitals this December.

Supported by Meeg Bank, the initiative forms part of Executive Mayor Zintle Peter's Christmas outreach programme that aims to bring smiles to the city's needy. Flanked by councillors, municipal staff and Meeg Bank representatives, Peter got to work on Monday, 10 December and gave toys to children in hospitals around the city.

The delegation visited Grey and Bhisho hospitals before rushing off to Cecilia Makiwane and Frere hospitals in East London, where the officials were greeted by appreciative similes from staff, parents and children. They later went to Nkqubela and Fort Grey hospitals.

Speaking about the gesture, Peter said she was happy to see that the children appreciated her efforts.

"I know that some of them will not be spending Christmas at home this summer; that is why I decided to bring these gifts to them. It's not much but it shows that we care about our children."

The mayor was also grateful to Meeg Bank for helping her with her social responsibility programme. Meeg Bank representative Paul Stafford said that the bank had been involved in the City's outreach programme for three years.

"We want to use our resources to touch the lives of these children, especially those in hospitals, and show them that we care. Many will not be home to enjoy Christmas this summer, so it is important that we play our part and touch their lives."

In another of her social responsibility outreach programmes, over the weekend the mayor hosted lunches for pensioners in Mdantsane and Dimbaza. On Tuesday, 11 December she will hold another pensioners' lunch at the East London City Hall.