NPO strives to be self-sustainable
The support of local business toward Thembelihle's garden project have helped the shelter generate enough funds to purchase groceries and offer the children some pocket money.
Delays in government grants have led non-profit organisations (NPOs) to become increasingly reliant on the generosity of the community.
While the donations made by individuals and business are still crucially important to the survival of NPOs, many are seeking the means to become at least partially self-sustainable.
At the Thembelihle Children’s Shelter, home to about 40 abandoned or neglected boys, a gardening project that has been running for the last three years has contributed significantly toward the NPO’s running costs.
Ruth Lovelock, who spoke on behalf of Thembelihle, said the shelter has been generating enough money from growing and selling spinach, onions and tomatoes, to pay for groceries, taxi fare for the children who attend school in town, purchase stationery and project paper, and to offer the boys at Thembelihle some pocket money.
“Whatever vegetables are not used at the shelter are sold to local restaurants and grocers and we want to thank the owners of these establishments for their support and their generosity. The rest is sold in town,” said Mrs Lovelock. “The money is going right back to the children who are learning the value of patience and routine from the time they spend in the garden. They are very proud to be able to see the fruit of their labour.”To purchase the fresh produce from Thembelihle at a very reasonable cost, and support a worthy cause at the same time, contact Ruth Lovelock on 083 779 0476.
