NPOs over the moon to receive funding again
NPOs had feared the worst after their funding was cut by the government.
Celebrations echoed across the town when the Springs Senior Citizens Club received their funds on June 9.
The celebration came after a battle that saw NPOs lose funding, let go of staff and close their doors.
The relief was instant when the Department of Social Development amended its laws and again agreed to fund the organisations for the upcoming financial year.
“We received the money on May 26, and it was the biggest relief,” said club manager Pauline Houghton, who thanked those who helped in the fight.
“Between the local papers and the national press, they pressurised them to change their hearts and restore the funding,” Houghton said.
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During his speech, the club’s chairperson, Ronny Newby, said this was a good sign for the future.
“It is up to us to make our club work better than it has ever worked before,” declared Newby.
Reverend Sharron Dinnie said a prayer of gratitude. She also prayed for the unity of two senior citizens’ centres and the future of all NPOs.
The Malan Nel Senior Citizens Centre’s choir serenaded the crowds with Italian music. Carlo Pagani played two solos on his guitar to the delight of those in attendance.
Other clubs, including Springs Epilepsy and Springs and Kwa-Thema Welfare, received their funds and are operating as before.
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