A powerful collaboration between corporate sponsors and the established and impactful paediatric non-profit organisation, The Footprints 4 Sam Trust, is ensuring the continued sustainability and growth of a vital transport service for vulnerable paediatric patients in Cape Town.
During a special event kindly hosted at the beautiful De Grendel Wine Estate in Cape Town by Sir De Villiers Graaff himself, the Trust unveiled its new mini bus that will replace their original “Vehicle 2”, bringing together long-time donors, supporters and partners to celebrate the impact already achieved and the journeys still to come.
Affectionately known as “Sam se Bussies”, the new Super Sam Hero mini bus is the 4th vehicle rolled out over the past eight years as part of this life changing initiative. Made possible through the support of Hertz, Efficient Group, GIB Insurance Brokers and newly onboarded Ranmore Fund Management, the vehicle features beautiful new branding that proudly showcases the refreshed logos of all the sponsors.
Melissa Williams-Platt, Managing Trustee of Footprints 4 Sam and Sam’s mum explains, “when our vehicles reach a certain mileage, Hertz kindly swaps them out for a newer vehicle, ensuring safety on the road.” The original second minibus, which is now being retired, was launched in 2019 after travelling over 216 770 kilometres and transporting 7817 patients and caregivers.”
Prof. Mignon McCulloch, who co-hosted the event added, “for families already facing the emotional and financial strain of a child’s illness, access to transport can make the difference between receiving treatment or missing critical appointments.” Prof. McCulloch is Head of Paediatric Nephrology and Solid Organ Transplantation at Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital, one of the hospitals in the Western Cape that benefits from the Trust’s transport initiative.
“Every kilometre travelled represents hope,” adds Kelly Robinson, Footprints 4 Sam Trustee, who hosted this special event. “Behind every trip is a child, a worried parent and a hospital appointment that could change or even save a life.”
Since the launch of the initiative in 2018, the buses have collectively transported over 16 725 patients and caregivers and travelled 457 424 kilometres. The impact has been life-changing for thousands of beneficiaries, many of whom would otherwise struggle to reach essential medical care.
Footprints 4 Sam will also be launching the first-ever Sam se Bussie in Johannesburg later this year – the new 22-seater bus will support paediatric patients in Johannesburg. “We are incredibly grateful to our donors and it is through their ongoing support and partnership that we are able to keep this vital transport initiative reaching the children who need it most,” concluded Melissa.
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