The North Coast Courier Orphan Fund (NCCOF) has distributed more than R10-million in cash support, alongside significant contributions of food, clothing, blankets and other in-kind donations since it was started in 2003.

Now in its 22nd year, the Fund continues to bring hope, dignity and opportunity to orphaned and vulnerable children across the North Coast.

At its annual general meeting, held at Workshop 17 in Ballito last Wednesday, chairman Pieter Naudé announced that more than R750 000 was raised and distributed over the past year, despite tough economic conditions.

The Fund‘s work is centred on three pillars: education through bursaries, feeding and sustainability projects and special once-off interventions to meet urgent needs.

Beneficiaries include Safe Haven for Children, Nkobongo Resource Centre, St Philip’s HIV/AIDS Ministry, Smile with Us and several crèches and community centres.

Fundraising events remain key. The Potjie and Punch Party grew from raising more than R32 000 in 2023 to R43 018 in 2024, while the Colouring-In Competition proved a surprise success, bringing in R33 000.

Other highlights included the Golf Day, the Ballito Open and the All Souls Philharmonic Christmas Carols concert.

Donations ranged from 25 000 sanitary pads by Miss North Coast KZN, food parcels and hampers from Boxer, to baby essentials for the Isinakekelo Group.

Mandela Day saw vegetables and gardening supplies distributed to local care centres and hospices, while Christmas parties were brightened by toys, clothing and treats from community donors.

The Soup, Socks and Snuggles “Bucket List” campaign, supported by the Balwin Foundation, again reached 13 NGOs, while four university students continued to benefit from bursaries to support their daily needs while studying in pharmacy, chemistry and architecture.

Naudé thanked donors, partners, volunteers and The North Coast Courier for their ongoing support, paying special tribute to co-ordinator Charmaine Premlal.

“Her dedication to administration, event planning, donor relationships and volunteer support embodies the very values this Fund stands for,” he said.

With its structure now streamlined, the NCCOF is preparing for even greater impact in the years ahead.

Premlal expressed gratitude to generous sponsor Workshop 17 for their invaluable support during the AGM.

“Their contribution of such a wonderful and accommodating venue and refreshments played a key role in making this event a success. Workshop 17 not only made this AGM possible but also helped foster an atmosphere of collaboration and community in a professional setting,” she said.

She also thanked Greenpen Accounting for their sponsored auditing services over the past few years.

“Their support not only ensures transparency and accountability in operations but also reinforces the trust donors and beneficiaries place in the Orphan Fund. Through this partnership we can maintain the highest standards of financial integrity while continuing to serve our mission. We value our sponsor’s commitment to social impact and confidence in our work,” said Premlal.

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