Fundraising News
Once again we are able to report that the giving to our charity continues to be most generous and we give a very big thank you to every donor, whether large or small.
Last year with income over £19,000 was exceptional and included some unique donations and the Borehole Appeal. This year, without any special Appeal, we have already received over £14,000 at the end of November. This is only about £3,000 less than last year at the same time. Our Treasurer reports that this is both very encouraging and heartwarming.
Where do the funds go?
We have spent £20,300 this year, almost all direct to Zimbabwe. Due to the generosity of the committee members administration costs in this country are virtually nil.
Bursaries for the Secondary School have amounted to £8,400 giving the equivalent of 11/12 full fees. This has been shared between 23 students. An unfortunate consequence of the USD being used as currency has been a great increase in costs, as for many years a full bursary has been around £300 per year and it is now £720!
Feeding. We fund the purchase of food for the Primary and Pre-schools. This provides for each pupil a daily meal of sadza (maize porridge) and beans, maybe with some relish of choumolier, a sort of cabbage. Many of the children have walked several miles to get to school and this may be the only substantial meal they will receive.
The Clinic. We fund the drug requirements as requested by the clinic which serves the Mission and local community
The Pre-school. We pay the salaries of the staff, which again are rapidly increasing. Without this the Pre-school would cease to function as the Mission which oversees this project has very little direct income.
In addition to these regular donations we respond to special requests and needs, this year paying the promised £2,000 for the fire damage at the workers’ village and the import duties (unexpected!) for the Land Rover. We are greatly blessed by Carol Williams, our wonderful administrator in Zimbabwe, who ensures that funds get to the intended place.
