On 28 September 2024, Cupcakes for Hope will host the much-anticipated National Cupcake Day 4 Kids with Cancer at MooiRivier Mall. This annual event, organized by Cupcakes of Hope, aims to raise funds for children battling cancer and their families.
Since its launch in 2012, National Cupcake Day has become a vital community event, raising over R10 million to support young cancer patients. This year, approximately 2,500 bakers will contribute their time and talents, and the event will take place across 70 malls nationwide.
Sandy Cipriano, founder of Cupcakes of Hope, shared her motivation for starting the organization. “My husband and I started to raise funds for children with cancer when a friend lost her 3-year-old to cancer. In 2012, we registered the non-profit Cupcakes of Hope. Since then, via the community-driven National Cupcake Days, over R10 million has been raised to provide for hundreds of young cancer patients and their families every month. This includes covering their medical bills and other essential needs, from nappies to nutrition and everything in between,” Cipriano explained.
The event’s success is heavily reliant on the dedication of volunteers known as Cupcake Angels. Elri Mienie, a long-time volunteer and cancer survivor, has been actively involved for over a decade. “I was diagnosed with breast cancer 13 years ago,” Mienie recounted. “During treatment, I realized how bad the experience would be for a child. I then decided that I would like to give back in some way. When a friend saw that CoH were looking for volunteers to help at Canal Walk on National Cupcake Day, I contacted them immediately. The bug bit me, and 12 years later, it is still so wonderful to see children’s faces when we provide them with something. I am privileged to make my small contribution to be able to make a difference.”
The event also benefits from strong partnerships, such as the one with Mugg & Bean, who have been involved since Cupcakes of Hope was founded. “Initially they were selling cupcakes in September and funds were donated to our cause,” Cipriano noted. “Now they sell the Muggles Muffin in September and R2 from each muffin gets donated to our cause. But it does not stop there; during the whole year if you buy any Giant Muffin, they will donate R1 to us. They have already donated more than R5 million to our cause over the years.”
Cupcakes of Hope’s reach has expanded significantly since 2020. In July 2024 alone, the organization provided financial assistance to over 220 young cancer patients, the youngest of whom was just 10 months old. “God truly has blessed our cause with the most amazing volunteers in the world!” Cipriano said. “Thousands of bakers and volunteers give their time, ingredients, love, and passion all year, every year. There is honestly nothing sweeter to me than seeing the excitement and joy that everyone shows on our biggest day of the year – National Cupcake Day.”
As National Cupcake Day draws near, the community is encouraged to join the celebration at MooiRiver Mall and support this worthy cause. Whether by purchasing cupcakes, making a donation, or simply spreading the word, every effort helps Cupcakes of Hope continue its crucial work.
