Picture a young child, eyes gleaming with excitement, clutching a book they can now call their own. This Christmas, through the Jakes Gerwel Foundation’s Blue Crane Book Project, you can help make that simple, profound dream a reality for thousands of children.
In the heart of the Eastern Cape’s Blue Crane District, the Jakes Gerwel Foundation’s goal is to deliver not just a gift but the joy of reading to 3,000 young learners. For as little as R50, you can sponsor a gift that includes a captivating storybook, sweets, and a small toy – a complete Christmas package for a child who may have very little to call their own.
“We employ 40 reading assistants who provide intensive one-on-one reading sessions to children with severe reading disabilities,” shares the Jakes Gerwel Foundation.
These reading assistants work in dedicated classrooms within local schools, transformed into nurturing reading rooms filled with books, colourful shelves, cosy mats, and engaging word games. These safe spaces are not only helping children learn to read but are inspiring a love of literature that could change their lives forever.
Beyond their regular reading sessions, the foundation organises holiday programs with plays, word games, food parcels, and face painting, creating a memorable experience for every child involved. “Through these activities, we aim to foster a sense of community and demonstrate that reading and books can be fun,” the foundation explains.
You can be part of this wonderful mission to spread Christmas cheer and hope to young learners in Pearston, KwaNojoli, Somerset East, and Cookhouse. By supporting the Blue Crane Book Project’s BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaign where they have raised over R1900 with the aid of 5 incredible donors, you’re joining a movement that brings not only gifts but the potential for a brighter future.
Warren Meyer (43), a devoted father and Senior Sales and Marketing Manager from Fourways, Gauteng, has left behind a legacy of generosity and love that continues to impact lives. On July 20, 2024, Warren suffered a cardiac arrest, after fighting in the ICU for 5 days, he sadly lost his life, but his selfless act of organ donation saved 9 lives, making him a true hero in life and beyond. His wife, Suzette (41), now shares his story to honour his life and raise awareness about the profound impact of organ donation while hoping to secure a future for their three daughters: Mila (12), Emily (10), and Olivia (5).
A Devoted Father and a Heroic Act
Warren was not only known for his hard work as a Senior Sales and Marketing Manager for a property development company but also for his immense love for his family. His wife, Suzette, shared, “Warren was a fantastic dad—very hands-on and a devoted husband. His family was his life.” Each of their daughters held a special place in Warren’s heart. “Our eldest excelled in drama and running, our middle daughter plays in the boys’ A soccer team, and our youngest was the apple of his eye. We were incredibly blessed to have a father and husband like Warren,” Suzette recalled fondly.
Warren’s generosity extended beyond his home, with his decision to become an organ donor rooted in his desire to give. “Warren was very generous; he would give his last R100 to someone in need and then go without.” Suzette shared. Despite the unimaginable grief of losing her husband, she is deeply moved by Warren’s final act of kindness. “Our loss was the answer to so many prayers; that is not something you get to give every day,” she reflected.
Picture above: Warren and Suzette Meyer
A Walk of Honour: Saying Goodbye to a Hero
When Warren sadly passed, the family faced a devastating reality. Suzette and their daughters spent a heart-breaking week watching Warren fight, only to have to let him go. On the day of his organ donation, staff at Life Hospital organised a solemn “walk of honour” to celebrate Warren’s bravery and compassion. Friends, family, hospital staff, and strangers lined the corridors, singing hymns as Warren made his final journey to the operating room.
“It was the most heart-breaking yet utterly beautiful thing I have ever experienced,” Suzette said. “The nurses were humming a hymn, and there were so many people lining the halls—doctors, nurses, friends, family, colleagues, strangers—all there to pay their last respects to a hero I could call my husband.”
Suzette expressed her appreciation for the hospital staff and the Organ Donor Foundation for their compassion and respect during such a difficult time. For Suzette and her daughters, this display of unity and respect helped bring a sense of peace amid their sorrow. “They treated Warren with the utmost respect right up until after the ‘harvest surgery,’ when they led me through to see him one last time and kiss him goodbye,” she shared, emphasising the compassionate care and support they received.
Honouring Warren’s Legacy and Supporting His Daughters
In the wake of this loss, Suzette has launched a crowdfunding campaign to secure a stable future for their three daughters, who are now without their father’s support. “Going from being ‘okay’ to being a single-income family is frightening and stressful,” she explained. Despite these challenges, Suzette wants to ensure her daughters have everything they need to heal and thrive.
The campaign has raised over R185,000 from 222 generous donors, with a goal of R250,000 to cover immediate and future expenses.
“What you have done by donating is give me and my girls one more day, week, and month, allowing us to heal our hearts instead of panicking about what we will do next month. Our life insurance did not pay out, so going from being “ok” to being a single income-earning family is frightening and stressful. Warren left behind three extraordinary and talented little girls. I want to make sure they have everything they need so that life does not burden them; they have already lost one of the most important people in their lives, and they do not need more stress at this young age”, Suzette expressed gratefully.
Picture above: Warren and his daughters, Mila, Emily, and Olivia.
She remains deeply moved by the support her family has received, adding, “I am eternally grateful to all the donors for their kindness. May you be blessed because you blessed someone else in their time of need.” The Meyer family’s story is a poignant reminder of the profound impact one person’s decision can have on the lives of many.
To support the Meyer family, visit their campaign here:
To register as an organ donor, visit the Organ Donation Foundation of South Africa atwww.odf.org.za or your local health department. By becoming an organ donor, you can help ensure that your legacy lives on through the lives you touch.
“How can you be unsure about saving lives? Seven to nine lives can be saved, and you can make a difference to up to 21 lives. You take nothing with you when you pass on; instead, you leave the gift behind for someone else to live,” says Suzette, offering these heartfelt words for those unsure about organ donation.
In South Africa, many people face significant challenges accessing healthcare due to the high costs of medical aid. Thankfully, there are several resources and support options available to help those in need. Below, we outline ways to receive medical assistance without medical aid, including crowdfunding, NGOs, apps, social media groups, and more.
Crowdfunding for Medical Expenses
Crowdfunding can be a lifeline when facing high medical costs. ThroughBackaBuddy, you can share your story and connect with a community that cares, enabling you to raise funds for crucial medical treatments, ongoing care, and emergency procedures. Whether you’re dealing with a long-term condition, sudden illness, or need help with post-operative expenses, crowdfunding can be a powerful way to seek financial support and reach those willing to help.
Public healthcare facilities in South Africa offer essential medical services, from chronic medication and emergency care to maternity and preventative services.
Here’s a list of key public hospitals in each province to contact if you need affordable medical care:
Gauteng: Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital – Contact: (011) 933 8000
Western Cape: Groote Schuur Hospital – Contact: (021) 404 9111
KwaZulu-Natal: Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital – Contact: (031) 240 1000
Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and Charities
NGOs and charities can offer crucial support if you’re struggling to access healthcare services:
Doctors Without Borders (MSF): Provides medical care to communities in crisis, regardless of financial constraints. VisitDoctors Without Borders for more information.
Gift of the Givers: Known for stepping in where help is most needed, Gift of the Givers offers assistance with medical care and supplies. Learn more atGift of the Givers.
Free and Low-Cost Medication
If you need chronic medication or support with regular health needs, there are pharmacies and organisations dedicated to helping:
Dis-Chem Clinic Services: Hosts free health screenings and immunisation drives at various times of the year. Learn more atDis-Chem Clinic Services.
Public Clinics: Many government-run clinics offer chronic medication dispensing and health services at no cost to those who qualify.
Apps for Medical Assistance
Accessing affordable healthcare can be as simple as downloading the right app:
Alfajiri Health: Connects you to mental health professionals and wellness services. VisitAlfajiri Health.
Vula Mobile: Designed for healthcare workers to make referrals, especially useful for rural patients needing specialist care. VisitVula Mobile.
Social Media Groups and Support Communities
Online communities can be a great source of practical advice, emotional support, and information on accessing affordable healthcare:
Medical Advice South Africa (Facebook Group): A community where members share experiences and advice about healthcare. Join the group onFacebook.
CANSA (Cancer Association of South Africa): Offers information and emotional support for those affected by cancer. Connect with them onFacebook orInstagram.
SADAG (South African Depression and Anxiety Group): A dedicated mental health support group with resources and guidance. Follow them onFacebook or visitSADAG.
Influencers Advocating for Healthcare Access
Some influencers actively share healthcare information and promote accessible care:
Dr. Nokukhanya Khanyile (@dr.khanyile on Instagram): A medical doctor providing healthcare advice and mental health insights.
Zola Hashatsi (@zola_hashatsi on Instagram): An advocate for mental health awareness and affordable mental healthcare options.
Media Outlets Highlighting Healthcare Access
A few media outlets are committed to covering healthcare issues and sharing resources:
Bhekisisa Centre for Health Journalism: Reports on public health challenges and solutions. VisitBhekisisa.
Health-E News: Focuses on stories related to healthcare access and public health. VisitHealth-E.
Telemedicine Services
Telemedicine is a growing way to consult with healthcare professionals at an affordable cost:
Kena Health: Provides low-cost virtual consultations. Your first consultation is free. Learn more atKena Health.
MediClubSA: Offers consultations via WhatsApp or phone calls at an affordable price. VisitMediClubSA.
Mobile Health Clinics
Mobile health clinics serve communities with limited healthcare access, often free of charge:
Phelophepa Health Train: Known as the ‘train of hope,’ this service offers comprehensive healthcare to rural communities. Learn more atPhelophepa Health Train.
PinkDrive: A mobile unit providing free breast cancer screening services. VisitPinkDrive.
University Clinics and Teaching Hospitals
University clinics and teaching hospitals often offer affordable care under the supervision of professionals:
University of Pretoria Teaching Hospital: Provides medical, dental, and psychological services at reduced rates. Visit their website.
Sometimes legal or financial support can ease the burden of medical bills:
Legal Aid South Africa: Offers free legal representation, including healthcare-related cases. VisitLegal Aid SA.
If you’re navigating health challenges, remember there’s help available. From raising funds with BackaBuddy to seeking care from public health facilities, there are many routes to receive the medical assistance you need. Let’s continue to support each other and spread the word about these valuable resources.
The Grace Factory, situated in Gauteng, continues its compassionate mission of supporting vulnerable mothers and their newborn babies. Since 2012, The Grace Factory has acted as a pillar of support for mothers in need, likened to a “Santa for moms,” providing dignity and relief at one of life’s most vulnerable moments.
With 400 “bundles of joy” maternity packs filled with essential goodies, distributed this past weekend, hundreds of moms across Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal can now rest a little easier. These colourful bags, emblazoned with The Grace Factory’s logo, symbolise hope and relief for mothers-to-be who are often burdened with immense stress.
Each bundle contains thoughtful items designed to ease the burden of caring for a newborn. Baby clothes, nappies, wet wipes, baby soap, maternity pads, and breast pads are among the essential gifts packed into these life-changing bags. Thanks to the dedication of volunteers, 200 packs were prepared in both provinces over the weekend, bringing smiles and reassurance to 400 families. These maternity packs are distributed to hospitals, clinics, social workers, and community partners.
Donate specific items (the full list is available on their website)
Sponsor a packing day
Host a donation drive to help another 100 mothers and babies in need
The Grace Factory remains dedicated to placing value and dignity on every mother during this critical time in her life. Their vision is clear: no mother should deliver her baby without the basic care essentials, and through the collective support of communities, they continue to make that vision a reality.
The Santa Shoebox Project has launched a festive crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy, aiming to raise R45,000 for their 2024 initiative, themed “A Step Towards Brighter Tomorrows.” While the campaign’s financial target is R45,000, the project still needs to collect and deliver 10,000 shoeboxes to reach its overall goal of more than 75,000.
This year’s campaign highlights the crucial role that quality educational and psycho-social resources play in shaping the futures of South African children. With almost 65,000 shoeboxes already pledged, the project is now in its final stretch to ensure all 75,000+ boxes are filled with essentials and delivered to children in need.
Although donations can be made at any time, there are drop-off deadlines for Traditional Shoeboxes at 50+ points countrywide. For those who are unable to shop for or drop off a Traditional Shoebox, the Virtual Santa Shoebox offers a convenient alternative. A Virtual Santa Shoebox costs R450, allowing donors—even those overseas—to make a lasting difference in a child’s life from the comfort of their own home.
The Virtual Santa Shoebox initiative specifically supports impoverished children living in rural areas, far from cities and towns. These children rely on the project for basic necessities, treats, a new outfit for Christmas Day, and school supplies for the year ahead. Volunteers carefully pack each shoebox, ensuring that every item—whether hygiene products, clothing, or educational supplies—addresses the unique needs of children growing up in difficult circumstances.
Image credit: Santa Shoebox Project
Why Choose a Virtual Santa Shoebox?
The Virtual Santa Shoebox option is ideal for supporters who may not have the time or means to pack and drop off a Traditional Shoebox. It offers an easy way for donors, wherever they are, to provide meaningful support to a child in need.
A 2024 video featuring 10-year-old Aviwe, a recipient in the Western Cape, beautifully captures the joy these boxes bring. Aviwe’s excitement over receiving basics like a toothbrush and soap is a powerful reminder of how something we take for granted can mean the world to someone else.
Watch the video here:
A Legacy of Giving
Since its inception in 2006, the Santa Shoebox Project has distributed an incredible 1,226,576 shoeboxes to underprivileged children across South Africa and Namibia. From its humble beginnings with 180 shoeboxes in Cape Town, the project has grown into a nationwide initiative impacting more than 1,000 educational and care facilities each year.
“Each Santa Shoebox is so much more than ‘just’ a gift,” says Deborah Zelezniak, Chief Executive Officer of the Santa Shoebox Project. “Every item is selected with care, considering the daily challenges these children face and their potential to thrive in the future. Whether you donate your time, funds, or a shoebox, you’re making a meaningful difference in the life of a child.”
Image credit: Santa Shoebox Project
The project’s impact goes beyond the shoeboxes themselves. Through the Santa Shoebox Legacy, the initiative has built 5 Early Childhood Development (ECD) Centres, established 223 reading hubs, and trained more than 1,500 ECD practitioners. The funds raised through the Virtual Santa Shoebox campaign will also support these vital programs, ensuring long-term support for under-resourced children and their communities.
How to Get Involved
Whether you’re too busy to shop for a Traditional Shoebox or live far from a drop-off point, contributing to a Virtual Santa Shoebox is a simple yet impactful way to help. Every shoebox is a step towards addressing the vast inequalities faced by South Africa’s most vulnerable children. Join the movement and make a difference by pledging today through BackaBuddy.
To donate and support the BackaBuddy campaign, visit:
Musa, a young man known for his infectious smile and enthusiastic spirit, is no stranger to life’s difficulties. Bound to a wheelchair due to Polio, Musa is also an orphan who has never had the opportunity to attend school or experience the joy of reading and writing. He faces challenges in finding work, and on top of the daily struggles that come with navigating life on wheels, Musa finds solace and happiness in one thing that many South Africans hold dear, rugby.
As a dedicated member of a wheelchair rugby team in Mandeville, Musa plays under the guidance of his coach, Ilan Guest. Ilan has coached the team for many years and has a personal understanding of Musa’s plight, as his own brother is also wheelchair-bound. According to Susan Schaum, “He is a selfless and generous individual,” she said of Ilan.
Ilan further explains the extraordinary effort Musa puts into getting to practise each week, saying that despite his many challenges, he pushes himself to make the 10km round trip on busy roads to attend. Missing practice is a rare occurrence for Musa, even though his wheelchair was on the brink of collapse. “The frame is cracked. No welding can salvage it. At some stage, it will collapse with him in it, heaven forbid on a busy road and far from help,” Ilan said.
Determined to lighten Musa’s load, Ilan initiated a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy to provide him with “the best chair he has ever had.” And the response from South Africans has been nothing short of astounding. In just two days, the campaign was fully funded, raising R30,000, and it didn’t stop there. The campaign had surpassed its goal, reaching an impressive R46,150, thanks to the generosity of 81 donors!
This means that not only will Musa get a new wheelchair, but he will also receive additional support for adult-based learning and essentials like shoes, a backpack, axles, and tyres.
The way South Africans rallied behind Musa’s campaign is a remarkable testament to the spirit of community and generosity that thrives in this country. It’s a victory that can stand proudly alongside any Springbok triumph-a reminder that when we come together, we can truly change lives.
