Parents and caregivers battling to settle their children’s school uniform lay-byes now have meaningful support available.

The Fundi Foundation has launched its first-ever “Bring a Little Joy” campaign, offering up to R1 000 in relief toward qualifying school uniform lay-byes at PEP, Jet and Ackermans stores nationwide.

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“Going back to school is extremely stressful for most parents,” said Sphiwe Masuku, spokesperson for the Fundi Foundation.

“Eighty percent of parents report that these expenses set them back financially, with 62% identifying uniforms and school fees as the most costly items. For example, the average cost for a Grade Eight learner now exceeds R5 000, with more than R2 700 allocated to uniform essentials alone. That represents an 8% year-on-year increase — more than double the national inflation rate.”

While lay-byes are designed to make purchases more manageable, they can create additional strain when finances are stretched.

“Through our ‘Bring a Little Joy’ campaign, we want to assist parents who are doing everything they can to ensure their children have the uniforms they need to enter the school year with dignity and confidence,” Masuku added.

“If you have a school uniform lay-bye and are struggling to pay it off, we encourage you to apply.”

Applications are officially open, and families are encouraged to apply to help their children start the school year with confidence.

Who Qualifies?

Parents and caregivers may be eligible for up to R1 000 in relief if they meet the following criteria:

• At least 70% of the lay-bye items must be school uniforms purchased at PEP, Jet or Ackermans.

• The lay-bye must have been opened at least 30 days prior to application.

• The lay-bye must not be older than six months at the time of review.

If the terms and conditions are met and the application is approved, the Fundi Foundation will pay the approved relief amount directly to the store where the lay-bye is held.

How to Apply

The application process is simple. Applicants must:

• Submit a clear photo of their lay-bye receipt.

• Provide a brief motivation explaining why assistance is needed.

Applications can be sent via email to fund@fundi.co.za.
Successful applicants will be contacted directly by the Fundi Foundation team.

Members of the public who would like to contribute to the “Bring a Little Joy” campaign can donate online

All funds raised will go directly toward settling school uniform lay-byes at PEP, Jet and Ackermans stores across South Africa. For full campaign details, donation information and terms and conditions, visit the Fundi Foundation website.

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