Residents exceed goal, raising R146k for Edenvale causes

A fundraising project started earlier this year by Edenvale resident Bernard Blom surpassed its target, raising R146 993 for local charities.

Blom said the people of Edenvale have a pride of belonging reflected in their expression, ‘We hail from the Vale’.

“For this reason, the fundraising journey started as a way to allow Valers to give something back,” he said.

Blom explained that while corporates often support charities, there are limited opportunities for residents to participate.

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“Corporates have been doing so much for charities in South Africa, but apart from the few folks who volunteer their time and efforts, there have been very few opportunities for community members to participate,” he said.

The initiative aimed to gather about 150 people every three months for a day of fun and charity, while contributing to organisations in the area.

Blom said their goal was to raise R100 000 for four charities by Christmas, but Edenvale residents exceeded expectations, raising R106 000 before the final fundraiser on November 1 at Ridgeway Stoneridge.

“After that event, we reached R146 993,” he added.

The funds will benefit Little Eden, the Edenvale SPCA, the Edenvale Care Centre Hospice, and TG Creating Smiles (Ridgeways Charity), which in turn supports the Netcare Foundation and Life Link Pregnancy Crisis Centre.
Blom said selecting the right charities was a key part of the process.

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“The charity must serve the Edenvale area and have a sound administration structure to manage any donations effectively,” he explained.

Little Eden’s gratitude.

Ann Coetzee, the CEO of Little Eden, said the organisation provides shelter and unconditional love to children and adults with severe intellectual disabilities.

The home cares for 300 residents, with over 60% having been abandoned or having come from families cannot afford specialised care.

“I have known Blom for nearly 30 years, and we met early in 2025 to discuss how we could work together to make a difference in the NPO space. We were blessed to be the recipients of the first quiz fundraiser in 2025,” said Coetzee.

She said the impact of fundraisers like Blom’s cannot be overstated.

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“Through their commitment, extensive networks and passion for making a difference, they become catalysts for change, transforming not only the financial sustainability of organisations but also amplifying their reach and impact in meaningful ways,” she said.

Hospice support

Ronel Barnard, the CEO of Edenvale Care Centre Hospice, said the hospice has been dedicated for 23 years to care for people living with life-limiting or terminal illnesses, while supporting their families.

Blom’s efforts raised R31 200 for the hospice.

“That generosity has helped us continue caring for those who depend on us, keep our facilities running smoothly, and extend our reach to more people in need,” Barnard said.

Community behind the cause

Blom said the biggest source of support has come from friends from the Vale, old school and sports friends, and the Ridgeway client base.

To potential donors, Blom encouraged continued community involvement.

“We are not the only folks trying to make a difference. There are so many amazing initiatives in Edenvale. Choose one,” he said.