Homelessness in South Africa is a growing concern, impacting individuals and families across all provinces. At BackaBuddy, we understand the importance of providing resources and support to those in need. This guide offers insights on supporting loved ones who may be experiencing homelessness, how to communicate compassionately, and a comprehensive list of shelters across South Africa.
Understanding Stigmas and Causes of Homelessness
Addressing homelessness requires empathy and awareness of the many factors contributing to it. Unfortunately, some stigmas persist that can prevent effective support and understanding. Here’s what you need to know:
Common Causes
Economic Hardships: Job loss, low wages, or insufficient affordable housing are significant contributors.
Health Issues: Both physical and mental health challenges can affect a person’s ability to maintain employment or stable housing.
Family Disruption: Domestic violence, family conflict, or loss of a family member can lead individuals to homelessness.
Lack of Support Services: Without access to mental health care, job training, or rehabilitation services, many struggle to regain stability.
Common Stigmas
Laziness or Lack of Motivation: Many believe those experiencing homelessness are unwilling to work, overlooking systemic challenges they face.
Substance Abuse: Although addiction may contribute to homelessness for some, many affected individuals struggle with complex mental health and economic issues.
Criminal History: A past conviction can limit access to stable employment or housing, pushing some into homelessness.
How to Support a Loved One Experiencing Homelessness
Supporting someone facing homelessness can be challenging, but small, meaningful actions can make a big difference. What can you do?
Listen with Empathy Approach conversations with openness and empathy. Just being present can help them feel valued and less isolated.
Offer Practical Assistance
Provide essential items like a meal, warm clothing, hygiene products, or transport fare to meet immediate needs.
Support them through fundraising on platforms likeBackaBuddy, where crowdfunding campaigns can help secure essentials, temporary housing, or job training resources.
Encourage Steps Forward Offer hope by encouraging small, manageable steps toward stability, such as exploring job training or reaching out to shelters for transitional housing.
Communicating with Respect and Compassion
When speaking to someone who is experiencing homelessness, an empathetic, respectful approach can make all the difference. Here’s how:
Be Respectful: Address them as an equal, using their name if known.
Listen Actively: Let them share without interrupting or judging.
Ask Open-Ended Questions: Invite them to share what kind of support would be most helpful.
Offer Help, Not Solutions: Ask how you can assist instead of assuming what they need.
Respect Boundaries: Recognize their need for privacy and personal space.
Show Compassion: Sometimes just knowing someone cares can make a difference.
Legal Rights of Homeless Individuals
In South Africa, there are rights in place to protect and support those experiencing homelessness. Being aware of these can provide some relief:
Access to Shelter: Municipalities are encouraged to provide emergency shelter to those in need.
Right to Dignity and Privacy: The South African Constitution safeguards dignity and privacy for everyone, regardless of their living situation.
Access to Health and Social Services: Free healthcare and emergency housing assistance are available for those in crisis.
Immediate Resources for Those in Crisis
In times of crisis, knowing where to turn for help can be life-changing. If someone is experiencing homelessness or a crisis, here’s where they can get help:
Emergency Contacts
Police / Ambulance: 10111
National Gender-Based Violence Hotline: 0800 428 428
Suicide Crisis Line: 0800 567 567
Lifeline South Africa: 0861 322 322 (counseling services)
Mental Health Support
Lifeline SA: 0861 322 322 for crisis counseling.
SADAG: Free support groups and mental health resources: 0800 567 567.
At just 18 years old, Beandri Booysen has faced more challenges than most people do in a lifetime. She is one of only 150 children and young adults worldwide diagnosed with Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome, a rare genetic condition that causes children to age four to eight times faster than their peers.
Without treatment, children with Progeria die of heart disease at an average age of 14.5 years. Despite these odds, Beandri continues to inspire thousands with her vibrant personality and courage.
Now, however, she faces her biggest challenge yet: a severe heart condition that requires urgent open-heart surgery.
Pictured above: Beandri Booysen
Beandri, who lives in Doornpoort, Pretoria, is beloved by her 269.2K TikTok followers and whose videos have garnered over 372K likes. She has been diagnosed with aortic stenosis – a condition where her aortic valve is dangerously obstructed, limiting blood flow from her heart. To make matters worse, calcification in her aorta is adding further complications. Without immediate surgery, Beandri’s health is at serious risk.
Through all of this, Beandri remains steadfast and hopeful. “I’ve been living with Progeria since birth, and I am used to it. I’ve learned through the years to deal with the challenges that come over my path, from my shoulders dislocating to surgeries on my hips and eyes. I face everything God brings into my life,” she shares.
Her family, whom she credits with shaping her strength, has been a vital source of support. “My family supported me by raising me as a ‘normal’ child, not one that is different. This made me stronger and the person I am today,” Beandri explains. “I now understand why they did that—to help me face the haters and obstacles in my daily life.”
Pictured above: Beandri with her brothers. (From left is Herman 34, Ruben 26, and Jaco 35)
While the family’s medical aid covers part of the surgery, it is not enough to cover the full cost of the procedure, hospitalisation, or the essential aftercare Beandri will need. Her parents, Pieter and Bea, set up a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy to raise an estimated additional R150,000 to cover Beandri’s medical needs. To date, 48 generous donors have contributed to the BackaBuddy campaign. In addition, Caring Daisies, a Pretoria-based charity, has been incredible in helping the family, offering vital support and resources during this challenging time.
Beandri’s positivity shines brightly in her TikTok presence, where she continues to inspire and motivate her audience. “I post to motivate people and keep them positive,” she says. “My goal is to raise awareness about other special needs individuals and show that everyone is different and unique in their own way.”
As Beandri prepares for her heart surgery, scheduled for 10 October, with the procedure expected to start at 8am, she remains realistic yet hopeful. She will be admitted to the hospital on the afternoon of 9 October to prepare for the operation.
Pictured above: Beandri and her mother, Bea.
“Please don’t feel sorry for me, because I don’t feel sorry for myself,” Beandri says with her characteristic resilience. “I am very positive, but I can have my down moments too. I’m afraid of any surgery, but I know the Lord is always with me. Every surgery carries risks, but I have an amazing support team—God has placed incredible doctors in my life. All my other doctors have a real passion for their work.”
Despite her challenges, Beandri remains active and full of life. Her zest for life is evident in every video she shares, and her online community continues to rally around her with unwavering support.
Her gratitude toward those supporting her on this journey is clear: “My family, friends, and supporters from all over social media and the world—I appreciate every one of you.”
Her parents also express their deep gratitude: “Beandri’s courage and strength have always amazed us, but now we are calling on the kindness of others to help her during this critical time. We are deeply appreciative of every donation, no matter the size, as it brings us closer to getting her the care she desperately needs.”
Picture above: Beandri and her father, Pieter.
Any funds raised will go toward Beandri’s ongoing medical expenses, covering medical aid shortfalls, aftercare, medications, specialist visits, and everything necessary to ensure her comfort and well-being.
Crowdfunding is growing rapidly in South Africa, giving non-profit organizations an opportunity to raise more money by tapping into the power of the crowd.
Although over R550 million has been raised on BackaBuddy for various causes, our most successful charities, will tell you that crowdfunding is not easy.
To make things a little easier for our charities, our expert team has put together this article on how to diversify your income stream and explore different ways to raise additional funds by using some of the most famous local events.
Once you have registered your charity to raise funds on BackaBuddy, the next step is to find champions and put together a fundraising team.
Where can you find champions?
TIP 1: The best place to find champions to raise funds for your organisation is to reach out to past fundraisers who have supported your organisation.
TIP 2: If you have volunteers at your organisation, ask them if they would be interested in putting together a campaign to highlight a need you might have or help to promote your new champions that sign-up.
TIP 3: Reach out to friends, family, colleagues and social groups to see if the keen chamipons among you would like to raise funds for your organisation.
TIP 4: Create a post on Social Media to see if any of your followers are taking part in the event. If anyone on your social network is entering the challenge message them privately to see if they will champion your cause! You can also share this post on various groups and forums to reach potential donors.
TIP 5: Following the official social media hashtags for the event could also introduce you to potential champions. Simply click on the following resource to explore hashtags you can use: Ugenie
TIP 6: Send out a call to action to your email list or database to see if any of your donors will be participating in the event and would like to raise funds for you.
Here is a template you could use:
Dear (name)
I hope you are well and staying safe.
We are reaching out to you, as you have been a valued supporter of our organization and the work we do.
This Month, we are putting together a fundraising team of champions for the _______________, which will take place from _______________. We are hoping to raise funds at the event to create awareness for our organisation and raise much-needed funds for _______________.
If you are passionate about our organisation and the work we do to _________, please consider entering the _______________ to raise funds on our behalf.
How to enter:
Register for the _______________ here (website). Create your fundraising campaign on BackaBuddy by letting the team know who you are, how much you would like to raise, and why you are passionate about your organisation here.
If you have any questions please contact Lakiwe your dedicated BackaBuddy Head of Charities via email:[email protected] to arrange a meeting.
The Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon
How can you support your champions?
You need to support your champions as much as possible to empower them to raise funds for you.
Show your champions who you are
If you have an organisational video and some emotive and inspiring images that show the valuable work you do, share them with your champions. This will motivate and inspire your champions on their crowdfunding journey and give them beautiful content to share across social media
Give your champions the latest statistics relating to your organisation and tell them about your success stories, so they can tell their networks about you and encourage donations.
Tell your champions what you need.
Crowdfunding with a tangible need, always speaks better to the public. Give your champions an idea of how funds raised will be used to benefit your organisation. This will help them determine their fundraising target and encourage potential donors to donate funds in those increments.
(For example)
“R100 will allow us to purchase 1 pair of shoes that will benefit disadvantaged children living in Edenvale, Johannesburg”
“Raising R10 000 will cover allow us to cover the data costs for 100 students struggling with online learning in their matric year”
“If we raise R100 000 with our crowdfunding campaign, we will be able to refurbish two classrooms”
If your runner has a personal connection with your charity and would like to fundraising for a particular need that resonates with them, this will make an emotive crowdfunding appeal!
Highlight your donors and help them spread the word
During your champion’s crowdfunding journey they will also need your encouragement and support to achieve their fundraising goal.
Create a post on social media to introduce your champion to your social media following, post updates about their campaign and congratulate them when they reach certain milestones. Encourage your champions to also share their connection with your organisation on their social media platforms when sharing their crowdfunding campaign link.
Examples of social media posts you could create:
Stefani from Cape Town is halfway towards reaching her fundraising target of R100 000 on BackaBuddy! With the support she has received thus far, we can cover the registration cost of 10 learners at UCT!
Communicate with your champions
Create a WhatsApp group to keep in touch with your champions, and see how their campaigns are doing and where their successes or struggles lie. Host regular Zoom meetings with your champions to motivate them, say thank you and offer them some encouragement. If you would like a BackaBuddy team member present in your workshops, let us know and we will be happy to share our expertise!
Encourage more donations
If your organisation is Section 18A certified, let your champions know to share this information with their potential donors as this is a great incentive to encourage donations in larger amounts. If you are Section 18A certified, let us know and we can add it to your campaign page for all potential donors to see!
We hope you found value in our advice, if your organisations have any questions, please reach out to us. The BackaBuddy team is here to help.
We wish your organisation and all your champions at the event all the best on their journey!
October is Mental Health Awareness Month globally, and for the past 30 years, the Cape Town International Kite Festival has played a pivotal role in helping people speak openly about their mental health without fear of stigma. As the flagship event of Cape Mental Health since 1994, the Kite Festival creates a space for artists, ambassadors, mental health care users, volunteers, and the public to share their stories of pain, healing, and recovery. Each conversation chips away at the stigma, fostering an environment of non-judgmental and supportive dialogue around mental health.
Photo by: Sulize Terreblanche
As Glenn Close once said, “What mental health needs is more sunlight, more candor, and more unashamed conversation.” The Cape Town International Kite Festival is exactly that – a celebration of openness and a call for everyone to engage in meaningful discussions around mental health.
The Need for Mental Health Support
Mental health issues are more common than many realize, and as the world faces ongoing economic, social, and personal challenges, mental well-being becomes increasingly important. Cape Mental Health aims to provide interventions that restore hope, build resilience, and empower individuals and communities.
This year’s theme, #HopeOnAString, is a powerful metaphor for resilience. Just as a kite rises higher despite the fragility of the string that holds it, so do individuals rise above life’s challenges. Each pull of the string reminds us of the inner strength and resilience within us all. The festival is more than a celebration of kites; it shines a light on those facing mental health challenges, underscoring the importance of early intervention and support.
Growing Awareness Over 30 Years
Since its inception, the Cape Town International Kite Festival has grown from a small one-day event to a global kite-flying phenomenon. The festival now hosts local, national, and international kiters, pop-up kite displays, community flies, EduKite Competitions, entertainment, kite-making workshops, and much more. The event has become a platform for mental health awareness, encouraging the inclusion of children, youth, and adults with mental disabilities.
With more young people speaking openly about their mental health challenges, the festival has shifted the narrative, empowering attendees to voice their needs and concerns while advocating for the protection of mental well-being.
Photo by: Sulize Terreblanche
Event Highlights
Pop-Up Fly Event: Held at Melkbosstrand Beach on Sunday, 27 October 2024, featuring professional kiters such as Mari and Bradley Ware-Lane, Bobby Gathoo, Brian Skinner, and others. Expect a few surprises from international kiters as well!
Community Fly: On 23 October, the annual Community Fly at Heideveld Sports Field on the Cape Flats will welcome children with intellectual disabilities from CMH’s Special Education & Care Centres, along with Grade R learners and preschools from the Heideveld community.
EduKite Competition: A kite-making and kite-decorating competition for primary schools, including children with special educational needs, offering monetary prizes for the winning teams. The prize-giving will be hosted at Curro Century City on 26 October, supporting mental health awareness.
Help Make a Difference: Support the Cape Mental Health BackaBuddy Campaign
Cape Mental Health has launched a crowdfunding campaign on BackaBuddy, aiming to raise R250,000 in anticipation of the Cape Town International Kite Festival. So far, the campaign has raised R2,250, and with your help, they can reach their target.
Your donations will enable Cape Mental Health to continue its vital work, expanding mental health services to vulnerable children and adults in disadvantaged communities. Every contribution, whether R100 or R10,000, will make a significant impact in providing mental health support and building resilience in those who need it most.
As the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to place strain on non-profit organisations, Cape Mental Health remains resilient but depends on public and corporate donations to sustain its community-based mental health programmes.
By donating to the BackaBuddy campaign, you are helping to provide critical mental health interventions, offering hope and support to those in need. Every donation, no matter the size, is a step toward creating a brighter, healthier future for vulnerable individuals and families. All proceeds will go directly toward Cape Mental Health’s mission of providing free, accessible mental healthcare services.
Celebrities Rally Behind the Cause
Cape Mental Health has gained the support of several notable South African celebrities who are passionate about mental health advocacy:
These celebrities are lending their voices to raise awareness and encourage donations, helping Cape Mental Health reach its fundraising goal and continue the important work of breaking the stigma around mental health.
About the Cape Town International Kite Festival
Since 1994, Cape Mental Health has proudly hosted the Cape Town International Kite Festival, Africa’s oldest kiting event, dedicated to raising awareness and funds for mental health. This year’s festival marks the 30th anniversary of an event that brings together the joy of kiting with the importance of mental wellness.
For more information on the Cape Town International Kite Festival, visit www.capementalhealth.co.za/HopeOnAString and discover how you can participate, support, or donate to this remarkable cause.
At BackaBuddy, we cherish our diverse donor community and are committed to protecting your trust. To keep our platform secure and transparent, our dedicated team works diligently to verify every crowdfunding campaign before processing payouts and activating charity profiles.
We want you to know that these processes are designed to uphold the values of trust and goodwill. They reflect our commitment to our community, not a judgment on your cause or efforts.
How It Works
When donations come in, they’re safely held in the BackaBuddy bank account until we can verify your campaign and ensure it’s ready for payout. Whenever you’re ready, simply log in and submit your documents.
Just a heads-up: your verification documents will only be reviewed after we receive your first donation. Our team is here for you, so please allow up to 5 working days for feedback on your submission.
How Do I Get My Campaign Verified?
To make the verification process as smooth as possible and to ensure a prompt payout for your campaign, please follow these friendly steps:
Log in to your account.
Navigate to the menu and click on Profile.
Go to My Campaigns, then click the down arrow next to your campaign.
Select Manage Campaign, then click on Verification.
Submit the requested documents and banking details.
What Documents Will Be Requested?
Proof of Identity of the Campaign Creator (choose one of the following):
Identity document
Passport
Driver’s license
Supporting Documentation
Any documents that help clarify your campaign or explain its goals are welcome. Please ensure all submissions are legible and clear. Check out the next section for examples!
Banking Details
Please provide the bank account details where you’d like your funds sent. We’ll need proof of your bank account, ideally dated within the last 3 months.
*Please double-check you are inserting the correct account details.
How to Request Payout
Self-Managed Campaigns:
Once your campaign shows the verified badge, you’re all set for payout! When you’re ready, follow these simple steps:
Log in to your profile.
Go to Menu > Profile > My Campaigns.
Click the down arrow next to your campaign > Manage Campaign.
Select Payout Request.
Our finance team will take care of your request and typically requires up to 10 working days to process it.
Blue Tick Campaigns:
If you have a Blue Tick campaign, you’re in luck! It’s immediately eligible for payout. To request it, just follow these steps:
Log in to your profile.
Go to Menu > Profile > My Campaigns.
Click the down arrow next to your campaign > Manage Campaign.
Select Payout Request.
Don’t forget to submit a payout document with your request, such as an invoice, statement, or receipt for reimbursement. Just a little reminder: you can only request one payment at a time, so please wait until the previous one is completed before submitting another.
*Kindly double-check that the account number you have manually inserted matches the account number on the payout document.
Examples of Supporting Documents per category
Individuals
Medical
Doctor’s report
Medical report
Medical aid letter
Pharmacy account
Hospital discharge note
Hospital invoice
In Loving Memory
Death certificate
Funeral home invoice
Fire/Drought/Disaster Support
Fire report
Police report
Invoices for replacing damaged goods
Education
Fee statement
Registration letter
Acceptance letter
Sports
Invitation to the sports event
Letter confirming the intention to attend
Women & Girls
Invoices for items to be purchased
Letter from the organization if partnering
Animals
Vet bill
Invoice from the vet
Creative/Arts
For art conventions (IMTA, iPOP, etc.) – invitation to the event
For equipment (musical instruments/videography equipment) – invoices from the supplier
Food & Hunger
Invoices from suppliers
Receipt for items bought (for reimbursement)
Environment
Permits – depending on the intended use of funds
Invoices for equipment
Children
If clothes are being purchased – invoices for clothing
If for school fees – fee statement per child
If raising funds for a school – a letter from the school principal
Community Development
If partnering with a charity/organization – a letter confirming the intent of the campaign
Invoices for food items to be purchased (pay directly)
Business/App
Business plans
Business registration documents
Budgets
Charities
A valid NPO certificate
Active social media pages (more than 1 year old)
A clear image of the charity/NPO logo
Please remember that any documentation you submit won’t be displayed on your campaign page. However, they play a crucial role in our verification process, ensuring everything runs smoothly.
Navigating life after a cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. Whether you’re seeking emotional support, medical funding, or guidance on nutrition and wellness, there are resources available to help you every step of the way. This guide brings together some of the most helpful tools for cancer patients, survivors, and their loved ones. From connecting with others who truly understand, to finding practical advice, these resources are here to remind you that hope and support are always within reach.
Crowdfunding for Medical Procedures: Accessing the Care You Need
The cost of cancer treatments can add stress to an already difficult situation. Crowdfunding provides a way to share your story and raise the funds needed for essential medical procedures. By reaching out to your community, you open the door for friends, family, and even strangers to contribute to your care. Each donation helps reduce the financial burden and brings you closer to getting the treatment you need.
At BackaBuddy, we offer a platform to share your story and raise funds for life-saving procedures. You’re not just raising funds—you’re building a network of people who care deeply about your health and well-being.Start your campaign on BackaBuddy.
Finding Your Cancer Buddy: Someone Who Gets It
Connecting with others who’ve faced similar challenges can make a world of difference. In South Africa,Cancer Buddies pairs you with someone who understands what you’re going through and offers emotional support. Sharing your journey with a cancer buddy can provide comfort, encouragement, and a sense of solidarity, reminding you that you are not alone in this fight.
Nutrition and Exercise: Strengthening Your Body Through Wellness
Focusing on nutrition and exercise is a positive way to take control of your health. South Africa’sCANSA offers nutritional guidance specifically for cancer patients, ensuring you’re nourishing your body in ways that support healing. Gentle exercise can also improve your strength and mood, giving you a sense of empowerment during your treatment.
Hospice Care: Comfort and Peace for You and Your Loved Ones
For those needing end-of-life care, hospice offers compassion and comfort. South Africa’sHospice Palliative Care Association (HPCA) ensures that you and your family receive the care and support needed during this difficult time. Hospice services focus on providing dignity, peace, and relief from pain, helping families navigate these moments with care and respect.
Free Counseling and Emotional Support: A Space to Heal
The emotional toll of cancer can be just as significant as the physical one. In South Africa, CancerCare and PinkDrive provide free support services. PinkDrive focuses on early detection, education, and support for breast cancer patients, offering free mammograms and educational resources through their mobile clinics. Having someone to listen, provide guidance, or offer practical assistance can be a valuable source of strength during your cancer journey.
Many cancer patients find hope in participating in clinical trials that test new treatments. TheSouth African Clinical Trials Registry offers information about ongoing cancer trials. Globally, the National Cancer Institute (NCI) provides details about clinical trials for various types of cancer, offering opportunities for patients to access cutting-edge therapies.
Cancer Support Groups: Building a Community of Strength
In addition to one-on-one cancer buddies, local and online cancer support groups can offer community, comfort, and encouragement.Reach for Recovery is a South African-based volunteer organisation providing emotional and practical support to breast cancer patients. Globally, online platforms likeCancer Support Community allow patients and families to join virtual support groups, offering a safe space to share experiences and receive guidance.
Apps for Support and Organization
Technology can help make managing your care easier. The CANSA iSurvivor app, specifically designed for South African cancer patients, offers tailored information and support. Apps likeCareZone can help organise medications, appointments, and important health details, allowing you to focus on your well-being without worrying about the logistics.
Books to Inspire and Guide You
Books can be a source of comfort and wisdom as you navigate the challenges of cancer. Here are a few that may resonate with you:
Social media platforms can provide real-time support and community engagement. Following organisations likeCANSA on Facebook andTwitter keeps you informed about events, resources, and stories of hope. These networks remind you that, even online, you’re part of a larger community that’s rooting for your recovery.
You Are Never Alone
In this journey, remember that your diagnosis does not define you. You are part of a vast network of support, ready to stand by you through every challenge—be it financial, emotional, or practical. Your story is unique and powerful, and each step you take toward healing is a testament to your strength and resilience.
If you know someone who might benefit from this support, please share this resource with them. Your willingness to connect can make a meaningful difference in their journey.
