Following successful efforts in three provinces and participation from major rugby union players in each province, the Vodacom Bulls are the latest rugby giants to take on the South African Rugby Legends Association’s (SARLA) #Rugbyunites charity challenge.
#BullsFamily team members, Rugby Legends and representatives from Cell C shopped and packed food parcels at Spar Menlyn Maine, Menlyn Maine Central Square from 14h00 on Saturday, 25 July. The Charity nominated to receive the food parcels is the Lizo Gqoboka Foundation.
Springbok and Bulls prop Lizo Gqoboka founded the Lizo Gqoboka Foundation in aid of rugby development in underprivileged communities. Now, as COVID-19 sweeps the nation, the Foundation has been distributing food parcels throughout Gauteng, for communities in need, with the participation of the Bulls.
The #RugbyUnites challenge was the brainchild of SARLA President and CEO of Richmark Holdings, Gavin Varejes. Gavin said, “As the COVID-19 crisis escalates, I’m very proud to see the major rugby unions embracing this challenge. People really need it right now. Hunger is a problem that is affecting every corner of our country. It’s a pervasive issue that is escalating fast and we need to tackle it urgently. Thank you to the Bulls for pitching in. Their efforts made a huge difference.”
Lions Rugby Captain Elton Jantjies was also on-hand, once again, to help pack parcels. He was joined by Bulls player Trevor Nyakane and other Bulls team members, who flexed their muscles off the field for a change. Trevor said, “Hunger is a problem that is closer to home than it has ever been. We can’t just stand by and let our people starve. It is up to those of us who have the resources to make a difference. The Vodacom Bulls are proud to be a part of the Rugby Unites initiative and we encourage the rest of South Africa to do what they can for food security in this difficult time.”
#RugbyUnites is sponsored by Cell C and Richmark Holdings and has distributed over 2000 food parcels over the past 12 weeks, to various charities around the country. CEO of Cell C, Douglas Craigie Stevenson, said, “Seeing Rugby Unites gather momentum is a very positive thing in a time when the country really needs some good news. Cell C is committed to contributing and helping South African people find their way back to a bit of normality in this strange, challenging and unusual period in our history. Thank you to Gavin, SARLA and the rugby unions for keeping it going.”
To stay up to date with news about SARLA’s continued efforts to support local communities, follow the SA Rugby Legends on Facebook. And for more information, please visit www.sarugbylegends.com.
Facebook – @SARugbyLegendsAssociation
Twitter – @SARugbyLegends
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