This grand effort is part of the total StreetSmart allocation of R1,7 million distributed nationally for 2019 to organisations working with children at risk.
“This amount is made possible by the generosity of the patrons and our partners, who in spite of tough economic circumstances still give to make a difference to the lives of children, R5 at a time!”, says Margi Biggs, founder of StreetSmart.
The Cape Town beneficiaries are Amy Foundation, Cape Town Multi Service Centre, Home from Home - Masiphumulele, Ocean View and Westlake, Learn to Live, Ons Plek, The Homestead Projects, T.L.C. Outreach Projects, and School of Hope – Thembalitsha Foundation and Zip Zap Circus. The StreetSmart funds were handed over at an event held at the Salesian Institute in Green Point, where radio personality and guest speaker, Africa Melane, reminded Capetonians to support initiatives such as StreetSmart because it raises funds in the areas where it is needed and that every cent raised, actually goes to the beneficiary organisations.
"Not only does it allow our guests to make a donation responsibly and in a safe environment if they choose to do so, but it allows us to contribute responsibly as a business,” says Mari Vigar, co-owner of La Mouette and Upper Bloem restaurants, which have generously matched the donations they receive from diners, effectively doubling their contribution.
“We do this because it is important for us to be part of something with substance, with real results and where funds are managed responsibly. We encourage everyone to join this cause that allows the adults of tomorrow to see a better future for themselves, one R5 at a time”, she explains.
There are currently 33 establishments in Cape Town that have embraced StreetSmart’s vision to make a real difference to the lives of street children or children at risk of living on the streets. Funds are raised by adding a R5 donation to each patron’s bill. This donation is voluntary and donors are able to contribute more if they wish to.
With this generous gesture, StreetSmart establishments and their guests are making a real difference to the lives of vulnerable and street children in their local communities.
“Through the generosity of our fundraising partners and other supporters we are able to continue to expand our national footprint. For the fifth consecutive year, StreetSmart will be disbursing over R1 million to beneficiaries nationally, enabling us to support 35 programmes. We are so excited to be able to continue this work through responsible giving via StreetSmart and we extend an invitation to restaurants, accommodation establishments and wine tasting venues to become StreetSmart in their local areas,” says Melanie Burke, Chairman of StreetSmart SA.
StreetSmart SA was set up in 2005 by a group of concerned Capetonians under the patronage of Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu and comprises resourceful board members representing business, and the hospitality and tourism industries. Similar StreetSmart organisations also run independently in the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Canada and The Netherlands.
StreetSmart SA is registered as a Public Benefit Organisation as well as a Non-profit Organisation and ensures that every cent donated by guests goes towards social and educational upliftment projects for street children. StreetSmart's goal is to be part of the process of social normalisation and to encourage the public not to give money into the hands of a child as this keeps them on the streets. In essence, donating to StreetSmart where you eat, drink and sleep is the responsible way to help a street child.
For more information or to make a donation, contact StreetSmart SA at Tel: 021 447 3227 email info@streetsmartsa.org.za or visit www.streetsmartsa.org.za.