As we end the second month of 2024, I am reminded of a comment I made to an ex-board member before returning to work following my year-end leave. I said that I was looking forward to the challenges of the new year on my return to the Centre. Little did I know that at that time, the Department of Social Development was in the midst of finalising preparations for cuts to NPO subsidies here in KZN.
We, along with other NPO’s across KZN received a letter from the Head of Department of Social Development clearly highlighting that, ‘continuous budget cuts by National Treasury has left the Department with no alternative but to reduce funding for all NPOs in the upcoming financial years.’ Note the plural … not just the upcoming financial year, but the upcoming financial years!
The last increase to subsidy was in 2019. And now, as we draw to the close of the 2023/2024 financial year, the current subsidy only covers 50% of our running costs. We’re going to need a miracle to be able to manage with further cuts to this already inadequate subsidy. Especially against the backdrop of the ever-soaring cost of living. My comment of ‘looking forward to the challenges of the new year’, seems like a challenge in itself now.
There is a lot about the year ahead that I don’t know. But what I do know with unequivocal certainty, is that we will not abandon the many vulnerable, abused, neglected, and rejected children in KZN who need the safety, care, and treatment that we have to offer. We are blessed with a community of generous and kind-hearted donors, like you, who come to our rescue and help us meet our needs.
Together with your support we place our trust in God’s hands and believe that we shall overcome this unexpected challenge.