As part of its Good Stories from Mpumalanga Programme, the National Lotteries Commission (NLC) recently visited the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) in Barberton.

A delegation from its marketing and communication team visited the local kennels.

According to Marlies Liebenberg, secretary of Barberton SPCA and chairman of Mpumalanga, the local SPCA was selected as a beneficiary for grant funding to the amount of R693 000 00, which consisted of money for a new vehicle and operational costs.

“The NLC has embarked on an exercise to profile some of the Lotto-funded beneficiaries through the production of Good Stories, which highlight NLC’s socio-economic impact to South African communities.
“During their visit, they came with a television crew and a photographer. They wanted to document the manner in which the local SPCA was able to access the funding, how funds are used, and its impact on the communities it serves.”

The NLC relies on funds from the proceeds of the National Lottery. The Lotteries Act guides the way in which funding may be allocated.

The aim is to make a difference to the lives of all South Africans, especially those more vulnerable, and to improve the sustainability of the beneficiary organisations.

The Barberton SPCA operates from Komatipoort all the way down to Badplaas and Oshoek Border Post.
“It is a huge area, and the new vehicle has enabled the trainee-inspector to access areas previously difficult to reach.
“The two kennel hands were both promoted to kennel assistants, with a salary increase made possible through the funds allocated.

“New working clothes have also been provided. The organisation was also able to hire larger premises for their charity shop, and appoint two ladies to run this business.

“Although grant income is made available, it does not mean that an organisation should stop fund-raising.
“It is anticipated that the larger shop will generate more income for the organisation.

The funds allocated to veterinary costs have also been a huge relief, where the SPCA is able to look at more sterilisations of feral cats, and is presently embarking on a feral cat programme at the correctional services farm with that department’s support. More animals in need of medical care can be provided for.”

The representatives did not only document the positive impact the grant funding has had on the overall functioning of the SPCA, but also offered advice on their marketing strategy through the beneficiaries.
“It is also important to note that the only way they can make grant funding available is through the sale of Lotto tickets to the public.

“A portion of each ticket is allocated and distributed to beneficiaries all over the country. Even if you do not win anything on your ticket, you are still contributing to assisting non-profit organisations that help to uplift our society and create opportunities for others.”

The greatest impact of the grant is the fact that the focus of the organisation had shifted from fund-raising to improved service delivery to the community.