Snuggle Buddies keeping it extra warm for the less fortunate this winter

JOBURG – An amazing group of friends came up with a concept of giving warm things to those in need in memory of their dearest friend.

May 9, 2017

Sizwe Shabalalasizwes@caxton.co.za 2 minutes read

The 2nd Annual Snuggle Buddies drive will take place in Johannesburg and Cape Town on the 10th of May.

This initiative aims to bring warmth to those who need it most by collecting donations of items such as blankets, clothing, baby supplies and toys.

For Pam Morris, head of the programme, this is a very personal and dear project. “My son, Jared Morris, passed away on 13 February last year at the age of 24 after a long illness. Jared’s amazing group of friends came up with the concept of giving warm things to those in need in memory of their dearest friend,” explained Morris.

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According to her, initially, the idea was to collect and give away pyjamas, gowns and slippers as Jared could always be seen dressed like this. He even went to school and to university in his pyjamas. “Nobody questioned him as this was his persona. He had slippers for every occasion, including ‘business slippers’ for going out,” she said.

This project is about more than just giving things to the less fortunate. It is about displaying acts of kindness and selflessness in honour of someone who was seen by those who knew him to embody these positive traits.

“We all see this as a legacy project to keep the memory of Jared alive. Jared was the most generous, inspiring and incredible friend to many people. He touched the lives of people from all walks of life, he would never discriminate, and gave of himself so freely to all,” Morris said.

So far, Snuggle Buddies has about 20 people directly involved in Johannesburg and about 10 in Cape Town. Everyone is encouraged to get involved in one way or another. Last year, Herzlia School in Cape Town held a Jared Morris Pyjama day on 10 May (Jared’s Birthday) and all the children got to go to school in their pyjamas for the day. They all also donated warm clothes which went to the charity of their choice.

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The children from Eden College in Johannesburg have donated loads of things and, according to Morris the prefects of the primary school will be involved in the distribution. “The group of Barmitzvah Boys from Pine Street Shul have also donated as part of their charity drive,” she said.

This is an annual initiative and community members can assist them again next year by contacting Snuggle Buddies via their Facebook page, or you can email saul@snugglebuddies.co.za

Delivery points in Joburg are: