St Francis reflects on 2019/2020 financial year during AGM
The lockdown has had a negative impact on the St Francis Care Centre; however, the centre survived
The St Francis Care Centre held an AGM on October 5 and reflected on a challenging, but fruitful 2019/20 financial year.
In his report, the centre’s chairperson, Themba Ntshalintshali, said the past year was quite eventful.
“We lost our dear fund-raiser Cynthia Dicks. The impact of this has been extremely hard on the centre, particularly on our fund-raising efforts,” he said.
He added the lockdown also had a negative impact on St Francis.
“We had to adjust our operations to comply with the laws of the country in an endeavour to prevent the spread of the virus,” said Ntshalintshali.
The chairperson pointed out the centre survived even though the bad economy, due to the lockdown, made things challenging for the new fund-raiser, James Matli.
“The experience of our former bookkeeper wasn’t helping the situation either. Incidentally, I must mention the case was finally resolved. The culprit, having pleaded guilty to 956 counts of fraud she committed between 2002 and 2017, was found guilty and sentenced to 18 years in jail.
“The concerning fact is now whether the Asset Forfeiture Division will recoup anything for the benefit of the centre,” he said.
Ntshalintshali thanked the centre management for keeping stakeholders informed during this trying time.
Centre manager Tilly Brouwer said the centre’s programmes were busy and well utilised during the 2019/20 financial year.
“It is vitally important that the centre’s programmes remain relevant and in line with the national strategic objectives of both the Department of Social Health and Development.”
She expressed her gratitude towards the centre’s donors, board and staff members for their commitment and support.
Also Read: Bookkeeper jailed for stealing almost R12-million from St Francis Care Centre
Also Read: St Francis charity shop and book nook open for business
