Despite the uncertainty brought about by the budget cuts from the Department of Social Development (DSD), Bula Monyako Projects remains steadfast in its mission to be an oasis for the people of Greater Benoni.
They revealed this during its AGM held at the Benoni Central Methodist Church (BCMC) on August 23.
The organisation, which is turning 20 this year, provides psychosocial support for people infected with or affected by HIV/Aids.
According to the project manager, Fridah Seokomo, the budget cuts resulted in the NPO letting go of five EPWP volunteers as DSD did not renew the organisation’s funding for this project.
Two workers also took the organisation to the CCMA, and after completion of the case, the NPO had to pay them one month’s stipend each.
This further delayed the contracts of volunteers and negatively impacted the organisation’s home-visiting services.
“Our doors remained open for people of greater Benoni to be served without prejudice. The quality of services Bula Monyako delivered would not be possible without our hardworking team,” said Seokomo.
Some of the organisation’s successes in the past year included the child care forum that taught 105 learners from Katlego Intermediate School subjects such as bullying, mutual respect and body shaming.
They also ran a support group for people infected with HIV in Barcelona and handed out 100 food parcels on October 1 last year.
Seokomo highlighted the ageing building from which they operate and the shortage of food they provide to their HIV-positive clients as challenges to be addressed urgently.
“Our heartfelt gratitude to both our board and the BCMC board that remain our main sources of support. We also appreciate the continuous support we receive from our DSD social worker, Kamogelo Sediba.”
The organisation’s chairperson, Dave Bentley, thanked staff members for their hard work and commitment to those they serve.
“We continue to undertake good work. We thank them all for their ongoing labour in providing psychosocial support to those infected by HIV. It is for their sake alone that Bula Monyako exists and serves.”
In his financial report, the treasurer, Perkins Bayisayi, said they remained within budget despite a significant increase in campaigning expenses.
“We did not fully open our doors in the past financial year. This compromised the fulfilment of our mission and vision. As we continued this path to offer support services to our community, we remained without funding to carry out our full vision and mission, but we remain hopeful,” he said.
The NPO thanked organisations and companies such as Al Saudi Bakery, Boxer Supermarket and DSD for their continued support.
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