Staff Writer
The Zimbabwe National Organisation of Associations and Residents Trust (ZNOART) has launched a national Christmas appeal to mobilise donations of 720 waterproof mattress protectors for learners with disabilities at Jairos Jiri Association centres across the country.
The initiative seeks to improve sleeping conditions, hygiene, comfort and dignity for approximately 720 learners accommodated at the association’s 16 centres nationwide.
In an appeal issued following a request for assistance from Jairos Jiri Association dated 5 November 2026, ZNOART said it was mobilising residents, corporates, churches, businesspeople and well-wishers to support the initiative ahead of Christmas.
ZNOART National Chairman, Mr Shepherd Shalvar Chikomba, ( pictured) called on Zimbabweans from all walks of life to contribute towards the programme, saying the initiative was an opportunity to demonstrate compassion and solidarity with persons with disabilities.
“Christmas is not only about receiving gifts but also about sharing love, compassion and kindness with those who need our support,” said Chikomba.
He said the organisation was targeting the donation of 720 waterproof mattress protectors to benefit learners at the 16 Jairos Jiri centres.
Chikomba said the initiative would also help ease the daily responsibilities of caregivers and staff who work tirelessly to provide care and support to the learners.
ZNOART is appealing for donations of waterproof mattress protectors, financial contributions towards their purchase, assistance in identifying suppliers and support from businesses, churches and individuals willing to participate.
The organisation has set 17 December 2026 as the target date for handing over the donations.
Chikomba urged residents and well-wishers to unite behind the initiative, emphasising that every contribution would make a difference in improving the welfare of the beneficiaries.
“Let us work together to make this Christmas memorable for these 720 learners. No contribution is too small when it is given with love,” he said.
Interested individuals and organisations have been invited to join the ZNOART Community Care Group on WhatsApp to coordinate donations and other forms of assistance.
The initiative forms part of ZNOART’s broader community care and social responsibility efforts, guided by its philosophy of putting residents at the centre of development.