16 May 2018: For the thousands of children living in care, the cold winter months are an annual struggle. This year, TWINSAVER in partnership with Pick n Pay, have set out to support SOS Children’s Villages across South Africa through an initiative that will help “Soften the Blow” during the cold months ahead.   SOS Children’s Villages provide shelter, care and love for over 5 500 children around the country who have lost their parents. This non-profit organisation, which has operations in 8 out of 9 South African provinces, seeks to create new families and a brighter future for the children in their care. This winter, TWINSAVER in conjunction with Pick n Pay, are offering SOS their support.   From the beginning of May until the end of July, TWINSAVER donation bins will be available in various Pick n Pay stores across the country, and shoppers will be encouraged to contribute blankets and tissues via these bins.   All donations will be sent to SOS Children’s Villages to provide much needed support for the children in their care this winter.   “We’re incredibly proud to be part of this initiative,” said TWINSAVER Brand Manager Joanie Nel. “We understand that winter is a difficult time of year for hundreds of thousands of people around South Africa, and we are determined to make a difference by facilitating tissue and blanket donations to ensure the months ahead are more bearable for those without homes and warmth”.   Suzanne Ackerman-Berman, Transformation Director: Pick n Pay, said this campaign will bring some added warmth to the kids at SOS Children’s Villages during the cold winter months. “We are grateful for the generosity of all those participating in this campaign.”   SOS Corporate Fundraiser, Mandy Spies, said: “Winter is a tough time of year for children living without parental care. The support from TWINSAVER, Pick n Pay and all who support this initiative will provide children, who are supported by SOS Children’s Villages, with warmth, security and comfort – just like a mother’s hug! We are grateful for the generosity of all involved in this important outreach programme”.   TWINSAVER and Pick n Pay would like to appeal to the public to join them in making a difference. Make a donation at your local Pick n Pay and help Soften the Blow this winter.   For more information on the SOS Children’s Villages, please visit www.sossouthafrica.org.za   Kind regards,   Janine Caradonna