Non-profit organisations across Centurion dedicate themselves throughout the year to supporting vulnerable communities and providing assistance to those in need.

With 2025 coming to an end, three local NPOs reflected on the challenges and successes they experienced this year and shared their hopes and wishes for the festive season.

Their reflections also highlight the ongoing need for community support, donations, and volunteers to continue making an impact in the lives of those they serve.

Moeggesukkel, based in Mnandi, has played a vital role in housing, feeding, reconciling, and creating job opportunities for thousands of people.

The organisation serves as a support system for many, striving to restore hope in situations that can feel hopeless.

Its founder, Jacques Papenfus, explained that one of their biggest challenges this year was accommodating everyone in need.

“We receive many applications from individuals in need, and unfortunately, we can’t take everyone in,” he said.

To overcome some of these obstacles, Papenfus said he had to think creatively and find practical solutions.

“Thanks to community donations of caravans, we were able to provide temporary homes and shelter to more families.”

Among the successes he highlighted was the establishment of six small mobile food stands operating at schools and events, which also create jobs for people at their shelter.

The organisation also expanded its property to accommodate an additional 30 people.

“Overall, it has been a productive year, and we hope to make an even bigger impact next year,” Papenfus said.

Looking ahead, Moeggesukkel hopes to continue providing accommodation and employment opportunities.

During the festive season, they aim to make Christmas special for the 750 families on their database with sufficient food and other support.

Papenfus encouraged residents and businesses to contribute food parcels or other resources, explaining that the more they have, the more they can distribute to those in need.

Their Just Year programme will run a food distribution initiative in the last week before Christmas.

“I encourage everyone to spend time with their loved ones and enjoy the holiday season. For those who can help, it gives hope to families in need,” he added.

Residents wishing to contribute can contact Jacques Papenfus on 082 948 8605.

In Olievenhoutbosch, the Rivoni Foundation provides programmes such as a soup kitchen, clothing drives, and youth and child development initiatives, aiming to restore hope for vulnerable groups in the area.

Founder Zama Mretyana described the organisation as a self-funded NPO.

“We don’t receive government support and rely almost entirely on donations and sponsorships. Covering everything from our own pockets is very stressful,” she said.

Despite these challenges, Mretyana said the organisation secured a sponsorship with a large food retailer this year, enabling them to provide meals to community members in need, which was a major relief.

Looking ahead to 2026, the organisation hopes to secure its own space, as it currently operates from a church.

During the festive season, the Rivoni Foundation welcomes donations, including old children’s school uniforms and stationery, which they distribute to students in January, as well as any other contributions.

Mretyana urged residents and businesses to contribute whatever they can, emphasising that even small acts make a difference.

“We see the efforts of our community and hear their cries for help. We want them to know that we are working to support them,” she said.

Those wishing to assist can contact Zama Mretyana on 073 064 7039.

Another NPO, Ditshego House of Laughter, serves children in the Mooiplaas community, where high unemployment and widespread poverty affect many families.

The organisation provides a safe space where children can play, receive nutritious meals, and get help with schoolwork.

Administrator Letago Sekhukhune said that 2025 posed challenges such as budget cuts, operational cost shortages, and the need for school shoes and stationery for aftercare children.

Despite this, the organisation marked several milestones, including preparing 34 children to start Grade 1 next year.

Sekhukhune said the organisation overcame many obstacles by partnering with stakeholders, fundraising rigorously, and implementing income-generating projects such as jumble sales, egg and vegetable sales, fat cake sales, and sewing projects.

“Looking ahead, we aim to continue providing quality education, have our skills development projects accredited, run quarterly food drives, and collaborate with government departments to expand our services.”

During the festive season, the organisation hopes to receive financial support for operational costs, school supplies, and volunteers to assist with extra-mural activities.

“We will also run a volunteer gift-wrapping project at Mall@Reds in partnership with Anaprop Property Management,” said Sekhukhune.

This year, the organisation distributed food parcels to households in Mooiplaas, empowered youth, women, and men with permaculture and sewing skills, and provided materials and psychosocial support to mothers and their babies.

Sekhukhune expressed gratitude to stakeholders, partners, and volunteers, wishing the community a Christmas and New Year filled with love and laughter.

Residents wishing to help make the festive season special can contact Letago Sekhukhune on 060 631 0207.

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