Financial boost for community organisations

Despite a decline in public donation, the UCF recently donated funds to 22 community organisations

July 11, 2016

Wellington Makwakwa 1 minute read

TWENTY-TWO community organisations received a financial boost at the uThungulu Community Foundation (UCF) annual general meeting at the ZCBF Flamingo Hall in Richards Bay on Thursday.

Despite a huge decline in public donations because of the weak economic climate, the foundation handed out grants totalling R430 000 in support of community-based enterprises and cooperatives, mostly situated in the rural areas,
There was an increase of grant recipients compared to last year, focusing mostly on education and youth centres.

‘The Board took a decision to provide more assistance for education projects and those who assist unemployed young people to become entrepreneurs,’ said UCF Chairperson Busisane Mathebula.

‘We are faced with a challenge to find innovative ways of going forward and protect the foundation from sinking. We have been forced to look at our strategy and cut down on expenditure.’

Mathebula called on corporates to assist financially to support needy organisations.

‘The Foundation holds the view that development of small and medium enterprises can go a long way in creating socio-economic conditions that encourage unemployed young job seekers to acquire relevant skills, and consider self-employment an option to getting employed.’