National Cupcake Day returns to Kempton Park on September 26
An organisation sells cupcakes to make a difference and assist children battling cancer and their families.
Kempton Park residents can help bring hope to children battling cancer when National Cupcake Day returns to Norkem Corner on September 26.
National Cupcake Day was founded by Sandy Cipriano after her personal experience of childhood cancer inspired her to help other families facing similar challenges.
The first South African National Cupcake Day was held in 2012, bringing communities together to bake and sell cupcakes in support of children with cancer.
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Photo: Supplied
Cupcakes of Hope is a non-profit company and public benefit organisation that provides financial and emotional support to children with cancer and their families.
According to Cipriano, what started as a single fundraiser has grown into an organisation that financially assists more than 140 patients every month.
“Cupcake Angels, volunteers, partners and supporters are the hands and hearts behind every miracle,” said Cipriano.
Funds raised help families with practical needs, including medical expenses, transport, nutrition, wheelchairs and prosthetics.
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The organisation also supports children during hospital stays through care and educational activity bags, while providing assistance to paediatric oncology wards across the country.
For National Cupcake Day coordinator Letisha Pretorius, the campaign has become a family tradition.
Pretorius became involved in 2019 after a friend’s nine-year-old child was diagnosed with cancer.
She initially expected to help bake cupcakes for the day, but the experience quickly became something much more significant.
That year, friends and family joined her in baking 1 000 cupcakes, making fondant toppers, decorating and packing the treats.
Photo: Supplied.
“Every year, my children also get involved on the day, helping me sell the cupcakes and be part of this wonderful cause. It has become a family tradition that is very close to my heart,” said Pretorius.
“For me, National Cupcake Day is not just about cupcakes – it is about community, compassion, hope and making a difference in the lives of children and families affected by cancer.”
This year, Norkem Corner will host the local campaign, with residents able to buy homemade cupcakes while supporting children and families affected by cancer.
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Pretorius said the venue was chosen because it is easily accessible to the local community and offers free parking.
“Norkem Corner has a strong neighbourhood feel and is part of the local community. It is more than just a shopping destination,” she said.
National Cupcake Day has grown into a nationwide grassroots campaign involving volunteers, schools, businesses, families and individual bakers.
In 2024, according to Cupcakes of Hope, 1 992 registered bakers baked 114 291 cupcakes and raised R2.3 million through the campaign.
The organisation reported that more than 10 000 financial requests had been supported over the preceding decade, while thousands of children have received hospital care and activity bags.
Pretorius hopes to sell 3 000 cupcakes at this year’s event and raise R60 000.
“I am hoping to sell 3 000 cupcakes and raise R60 000, knowing that one day of selling cupcakes can make a difference in so many children and families’ lives,” she said.
She is encouraging residents, schools, businesses, churches and community organisations to get involved.
People can register as Cupcake Angels and bake cupcakes, sponsor cupcakes, host a fundraiser or visit Norkem Corner on September 26 to purchase cupcakes.
“Whether you bake 12 cupcakes or sponsor 120, every contribution becomes part of a much bigger mission of bringing practical support and hope to children with cancer,” said Pretorius.
“Let’s fill Kempton Park with kindness, one cupcake at a time. Together, we really can Bake a Difference.”
Residents and organisations wanting to participate can register through the Cupcakes of Hope website or contact Pretorius on 082 750 9974 for more information.
