Your donation has the power to make a meaningful difference in someone’s life, and BackaBuddy is committed to ensuring your contribution is processed smoothly. While our process is usually seamless, occasional issues can arise. This guide will help you troubleshoot any problems, ensuring your support reaches its worthy cause.
Common Issues with Donations
Here are some common reasons why a donation might not process as expected:
Cached Information: Your browser might be using outdated data that could affect the donation process.
Billing Address Mismatch: Ensure the billing address you enter matches the address on file with your credit card company.
Incorrect Security Code: A small error in the security code can prevent the transaction from going through.
Expiration Date Mismatch: Verify that the expiration date you entered matches the one on file with your credit card company.
Inactive Card: New cards that haven’t been activated yet might disrupt the donation process.
Credit Card Declined: Your credit card company may decline the charge for security reasons.
Communication Issues: Temporary issues between your credit card company, the payment gateway, or our site could affect the transaction.
Location Mismatch: Donations from a location different from your card’s billing address might trigger a security alert.
VPN Access: Using a VPN from an unfamiliar location can sometimes cause temporary issues.
Troubleshooting Your Donation
If you experience any issues with your donation, try the following steps:
Verify Payment Status: If you receive a bank confirmation but encounter an error on BackaBuddy, wait 24 hours to see if the donation appears on the campaign page. If it doesn’t, please contact our Support Team with proof of payment.
Retry Donation: If no payment notification is received, try making the donation again using a different device or browser. Clearing your cache and cookies may help. Ensure all details, including the address and security code, are correct.
Contact Support: If the issue persists, contact our Support Team with detailed information and screenshots to help resolve the problem quickly.
Pending Charges: If a failed donation shows as “pending” on your statement, it should be removed within 2-3 business days. If it remains, your bank can assist in removing the pending charge.
Processing Times
Credit card and PayPal donations are usually processed immediately.
Instant EFT donations may take up to 2 business days.
EFT payments might require up to 3 business days due to manual approval.
For EFT payments, please email proof of payment to [email protected].
BackaBuddy is dedicated to ensuring your donation reaches its worthy cause. If you encounter any issues, please reach out to our Support Team for assistance.
Grief is a complex emotional response to loss, often associated with the death of a loved one, but it can also arise from other significant life changes. The process of grieving is deeply personal, varying greatly from one person to another. Understanding grief, how to handle it, and how to support others through it can make a significant difference in navigating this challenging experience.
What is Grief?
Grief is an intense emotional experience that encompasses a range of feelings such as sadness, anger, guilt, and even relief. It’s not a single emotion but rather a process that unfolds over time, often in stages. These stages—denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance—aren’t linear, and not everyone experiences all of them.
How to Process Grief
Processing grief involves allowing yourself to feel the emotions without judgement. It’s important to find healthy outlets for your grief, whether through talking with trusted friends or family, engaging in creative expression, or seeking professional help. Here are some approaches that may help:
Talk About Your Feelings: Sharing your emotions with someone you trust can lighten the burden. It could be a friend, family member, or a professional counsellor.
Seek Professional Help: Grief counselling or therapy can provide you with tools to navigate your feelings and work through your grief in a healthy way. Organisations likeSouth African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) offer free counselling services that can be incredibly beneficial during this time.
Take Care of Yourself: Ensure you’re eating well, getting enough sleep, and engaging in gentle physical activity. Taking care of your physical health can also help you manage emotional stress.
How to Support Someone Through Grief
Supporting someone in grief involves offering a listening ear and being present without trying to “fix” their pain. It’s about acknowledging their loss and offering comfort in ways that respect their grieving process.
Listen and Be Present: Sometimes, just being there and listening is the most supportive thing you can do. Avoid giving advice unless asked; instead, offer a listening ear.
Offer Practical Help: Grief can make even simple tasks feel overwhelming. Offering to help with everyday tasks, such as cooking or errands, can be a significant relief.
Suggest Resources: Encourage them to seek support from professional organisations, such asLifeLine South AfricaorHospice South Africa, which provide counselling and support services for those dealing with loss.
Running a “In Loving Memory” Campaign on BackaBuddy
Honouring a loved one’s memory through a crowdfunding campaign can be a meaningful way to channel grief into action. BackaBuddy allows you to create a campaign in memory of someone, raising funds for causes they cared about or that reflect their passions and values. This not only preserves their legacy but also brings together a community of supporters who share in your loss and want to contribute positively.
Choose a Cause: Decide on a cause that reflects your loved one’s passions or values.
Tell Their Story: Share what made your loved one special and why this cause is meaningful. Include photos, videos, and updates to keep supporters engaged.
Share Widely: Use social media, email, and word of mouth to spread the word about your campaign.
Additional Resources for Grief Support
Link to Articles About Grief
For those looking to delve deeper into understanding and processing grief, here are some insightful articles:
Coping with Loss: Navigating the Journey Through Grief
This article offers practical strategies and compassionate guidance for navigating the journey of grief and finding healing.Read More
How to Be There for Someone Who’s Grieving
This article provides practical tips and guidance on how to support a grieving friend or family member with compassion and understanding.Read More
The Five Stages of Grief Explained
This article offers a clear explanation of the five stages of grief and how they might manifest differently for each individual.Read More
Apps for Grief Support
In today’s digital age, several apps can offer comfort, resources, and community support for those grieving:
GriefWorks – An app that offers daily tips, journaling prompts, and guided meditations designed to help you process grief at your own pace.
My Grief Angels – This app connects you with others going through similar experiences, offering peer support and resources.
Mindfulness for Grief – Focuses on mindfulness practices specifically tailored for those grieving, helping you find peace in difficult times.
Free Resources for Grief Support in South Africa
Accessing support during grief is crucial, and there are several resources in South Africa that can provide help at no cost:
SADAG: Offers free counselling services and support groups for those dealing with grief and other mental health challenges.
LifeLine South Africa: Provides a 24-hour crisis helpline and counselling services for individuals dealing with grief and other crises.
Hospice South Africa: Offers palliative care and bereavement support services across the country, helping families navigate the complexities of loss.
These organisations can provide valuable support, whether you’re seeking help for yourself or looking to support someone else through their grief.
For more information on creating a memorial campaign, visitBackaBuddy.
Nomfundo Matlala, a compassionate 39-year-old marketing and strategy professional from Cape Town, South Africa, is on a heartfelt mission of healing and empathy after her second myomectomy. Inspired by her own journey battling fibroids and the stark lack of resources available to women facing similar struggles, Nomfundo helped launch Supporting Stellar Women, a charitable initiative aimed at empowering underprivileged women in the workplace.
Nomfundo’s own journey with fibroids began in early 2016 when she first experienced discomfort in her uterus. Reluctance to seek medical attention due to work commitments led to escalating pain until she explored alternative options in 2018. It wasn’t until 2023, with the support of her partner and friends, that she found Dr. Catherine Elliott, whose compassionate approach to treatment proved pivotal in her recovery.
“In early 2016, I first felt the discomfort in my uterus, but I hesitated to seek medical attention due to work commitments. I was focused on maintaining high performance at work. By 2018, the pain became unbearable, leading me to consult a non-invasive specialist. Unfortunately, the recommended treatment was more invasive than anticipated, prompting me to seek alternatives. In 2023, I noticed the re-growth of my fibroids during the winter months, causing discomfort once again. With the support of my partner and her sister, I found Dr. Catherine Elliott, who provided compassionate care, considering both my physical and mental health throughout my recovery.” Nomfundo shared, reflecting on her journey.
Image caption: Nomfundo Matlala
Empowering Others Through Supporting Stellar Women:
With her profound understanding of the physical and emotional toll of such conditions, Nomfundo became determined to make a difference. She has helped launch an initiative, Supporting Stellar Women, which not only provides financial assistance for medical procedures but also prioritizes the emotional well-being of the women it supports. Partnering with a medical profession, Dr. Elliott’s clinic will ensure these women receive personalized care and support throughout their journey to recovery.
“Dr. Catherine Elliott and her clinic prioritized my emotional well-being, collaborated with me on treatment plans, and ensured I was well-informed every step of the way. Their compassionate approach was pivotal in my successful recovery”, Nomfundo shared.
Among the beneficiaries of Supporting Stellar Women is Ms. Soko, a courageous woman who prefers to remain anonymous. For eight years, Ms. Soko has dedicated herself to her work in a bustling Cape Town dining establishment, managing her section in the hectic kitchen. However, behind her unwavering dedication lies a silent struggle.
Ms. Soko’s relentless work hours, combined with the stress and physical strain of her job, exacerbated an existing fibroid condition, leading to the growth of a massive 40cm tumor. Despite her dedication, the tumor has taken its toll on her health, leaving her organs compressed and her energy depleted.
When sharing how she met Ms Soko, Nomfundo shares: “Her ex-boss is now a close friend of mine who was a great support structure during my operation. She was constantly listening and understanding to learn about the condition. This gave her enough reason to connect Ms Soko and myself to see if she was open to sharing with a woman that looked like her, and understood her journey.”
Crowdfunding on BackaBuddy
Moved by Ms. Soko’s story, Nomfundo wasted no time in extending a helping hand.
Through Supporting Stellar Women, Nomfundo initiated a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy to raise funds for Ms. Soko’s urgent surgery and post-operative care. Since its launch in February 2024, the campaign has received an overwhelming response, with over 10 generous donors contributing to over R67,000 towards the fundraising target of R233,250.
Image caption: Nomfundo Matlala
The funds generated through the BackaBuddy campaign for Ms. Soko’s case will cover all medical costs, including preoperative diagnostics, surgery, and post-operative care.
“We have partnered with Dr. Elliott’s office and the Be Bold Trust to ensure transparency and accountability in the distribution of funds. All medical costs are covered, including diagnostics, prescriptions, and aftercare.”
Continued support for women like Ms. Soko includes a six-month medical fund for check-ups and medication.
“We express our gratitude by continuing to campaign for Ms. Soko’s journey and inspiring more women to prioritize wellness. Giving up is not an option, and we believe this campaign will encourage diligence in self-care.”
All donors are eligible for a Section 18A tax certificate issued by Supporting Stellar Women, a project initiated by The Be Bold Trust IT000516/2014 PB0/930058757 NP0183869 Trustees: C I Maisel, M. Magiet, C. Grove.
To support Ms. Soko and women like her, visit the Supporting Stellar Women BackaBuddy campaign link here:
Beyond individual cases like Ms. Soko’s, Supporting Stellar Women aims to support female business owners and raise awareness about conditions like fibroids. Proactive collaboration with patients and employers underscores their commitment to long-term wellness. The initiative also provides guidance and support for women hesitant to seek help for similar health challenges, advocating for proactive healthcare and community involvement.
At BackaBuddy, we believe in the profound impact of collective generosity to transform lives and uplift communities. As South Africa’s leading crowdfunding platform, we are honored to support countless individuals and causes, providing a reliable foundation for heroes to stand on.
With over R550 million raised from more than 55,000 global donors for over 44,000 causes, we’ve seen the incredible difference we can make together. Our community’s impact has crossed borders, touching lives not only in South Africa but across the world.
Dedicated Support
At BackaBuddy, our acronym GECKO represents our core values: Generosity, Empathy, Compassion, Kindness, and Openness. Our whole team embodies these values, providing hands-on support and treating every person and cause with genuine care.
We are deeply committed to the campaign creators, charities, and organizations we assist. Our team is skilled and experienced, offering strategy and guidance across multiple platforms to ensure the best results for everyone.
Building Trust Through Integrity
Trust is at the heart of BackaBuddy. We treasure the faith our community places in us with each contribution. We are equally committed to supporting our campaign creators who set up campaigns to raise funds for various causes and charities. To honor this trust, we uphold a meticulous vetting process for every campaign, ensuring that donations are used effectively and ethically. Our goal is to ensure that each act of giving translates into tangible, positive impact.
Listening, Learning, and Growing Together
Your feedback is invaluable to us. It helps us navigate challenges and improve our platform. Recently, we launched our new website designed to enhance your crowdfunding experience with an updated look and many new features.
We faced a few glitches with the new site that caused frustration for our campaign creators, charities, and donors. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused. We are grateful for your patience and understanding during this transition. Thanks to your invaluable feedback, we have resolved these issues. Today, our platform is more robust and reliable, better equipped to support your crowdfunding efforts with advanced technology and attentive service. Your continued support means the world to us, and we are committed to making your experience even greater and more impactful.
Our Commitment to Excellence
We are proud of our review track record, reflecting our dedication to serving our community with integrity and care. In 2023, we received 312 reviews with an average rating of 90. In 2024, we’ve already garnered 212 reviews with an even higher average rating of 91. These numbers showcase our commitment to continuous improvement.
If you have any questions, need assistance, or wish to share your story, our team is here to help. You can contact us anytime with concerns, compliments, or support needs. Reach out to us through our Contact Page or directly via email at [email protected].
Thank you for being a part of the BackaBuddy family. Let’s continue making a difference, one campaign at a time.
Mandela Day, celebrated annually on July 18th, inspires individuals worldwide to dedicate 67 minutes of their time to community service in honour of legendary Nelson Mandela’s 67 years of public service. At BackaBuddy, we believe in the power of collective action, where each person’s unique contribution can create meaningful change. Here’s how you can get involved and support causes through our platform on Mandela Day.
Raising Funds to Support Your Community
One of the most impactful ways to make a difference is by setting up a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy. As South Africa’s largest crowdfunding platform, BackaBuddy allows you to raise funds to assist individuals or communities in need. Here are inspiring ideas for your Mandela Day campaign:
Food Vouchers: Provide digital food vouchers to families facing food insecurity.
Supporting Workers: Aid restaurant staff in supporting their families during challenging times.
Care Kits: Create essential care packages for patients in local hospitals.
Aid for the Homeless: Provide food and clothing to support homeless individuals.
Non-Profit Support: Help cover operational costs for non-profit organizations.
Education Initiatives: Fund teacher salaries or provide educational resources for schools.
Campaign Examples on BackaBuddy
Explore existing campaigns that aim to transform lives and make dreams a reality:
Education Initiatives: Fund scholarships and educational programs for deserving students.
Health and Wellness: Support medical treatments and health awareness campaigns.
Animal Rescue: Help rescue and rehabilitate animals in need.
Volunteering and Community Service
Engage directly with your community through volunteering opportunities:
Plant Trees: Participate in reforestation projects with Greenpop.
Additional Ways to Volunteer Your Time
Explore more ways to make a difference in your community:
Community Support: Assist an elderly neighbor with groceries or errands.
Tutoring: Offer to tutor someone in a subject you excel in.
Recycling: Set up a recycling system at home to promote environmental sustainability.
Tree Planting: Plant trees in your local park or community to enhance green spaces.
Creating a Crowdfunding Campaign on BackaBuddy
Ready to create a fundraising campaign? BackaBuddy offers a straightforward platform to get started:
Identify Your Cause: Choose a cause that resonates with you and others.
Set Up Your Campaign: Create your campaign page on BackaBuddy with a compelling story and clear goals.
Promote Your Campaign: Share your campaign through social media, email, and word of mouth to reach potential donors.
Engage with Donors: Keep your donors updated on your campaign’s progress and express gratitude for their contributions.
Mandela Day offers countless opportunities to contribute meaningfully to your community. Whether you volunteer your time, donate resources, or start a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy, your efforts can create lasting impact. For more information and specific opportunities, please visit the links provided.
