FAQs

Education | FAQs | Once-Off | Volunteer | Wishlist

How long is the sponsorship?

Preferably right the way through to High School (Grade 12 level), or a minimum of 2 years.

What happens if I can no longer continue the sponsorship?

We ask for a minimum of 3 months’ notice to enable us to find a sponsor to take over the child.

Do you select the child?

We select a child on your behalf. You can request an age and gender preference if you like.

How do I pay?

Via the Internet (EFT), bank transfer, or international bank transfers for overseas sponsors. We do not have the facilities to accept cheques, cash or credit cards.

How much are the fees?

From R1540 - R2100 per month (depending on how old the child is) plus an optional 20% to contribute towards extramural activities.

Can I communicate with the child?

All communication is facilitated through us. The sponsor may meet the child and its family if both parties consent to this. We will facilitate this meeting.

What correspondence will I receive?

An initial sponsor’s pack with the details of your child and the sponsorship. This includes a folder where you can keep correspondence from Bright Start.

We will send you term progress reports (school report and a newsletter) via email, plus an annual school photo and card from your child in the post.

You may liaise with us any time via email.

How does Bright Start support the children?

We run a comprehensive support Programme which aims to empower the parents to support and guide their child through their school career. Some of our Programmes include Cultural Enrichment, Nutrition, Extramural Activities & Transportation, Health and Hygiene, Personal Development, plus our internal activities such as PR, Marketing and Mentorship.

Who runs your organisation?

Volunteers who are passionate about our initiative, who live in our community and believe in transformation, integration and upliftment. The project was founded in 2008 by Sally Whitford, Sharon Scudamore and Fiona Maitland. We have individual volunteers who run specific areas of our Programme.

Where are you based?

We are based in Hout Bay, a suburb of Cape Town.

Are you a registered NGO?

Yes, registration number 2008/013050/08.

How many children are there in your Programme?

There are 17 children. These children range between 2 and 8 years old.

How do you select these?

Through careful screening of families who have been referred to us by members in the community or who have applied directly. We have specific assessment criteria, as the success of our Programme depends largely on commitment from the parents. We look for families who believe in the value of a good education, who are able to provide a loving, supportive and safe home environment for their child, and who are happy to work alongside us in a long-term partnership to give their child a maximum learning opportunity.

Is there an age restriction for the selection?

Yes. We prefer to take children in Grade 0 or younger. We find it is easier for the child to integrate at a younger age from a linguistic, social and emotional perspective. I.e. English is usually a second language with our children, therefore it is better for a child to be placed in an English speaking environment as young as possible so it does not inhibit their learning potential.

What happens if you experience difficulties with the children or their families?

We identify the problem e.g. learning difficulties or social problems, and then approach the appropriate third party to assist with the problem. If we find we are not receiving the support of the parents, then we reserve the right to terminate the sponsorship arrangement. However, this is the last possible resort, and we will try everything we can to reconcile the situation before considering ending the sponsorship. That is why the selection of the parents is crucial, because without their support, the child will not reach his/her optimum learning ability and will create an additional burden for Bright Start.

Is my donation tax deductable?

Yes, if you are a South African Resident or your business is based in South Africa. We are a registered NGO with PBO status.

Sustainability?

We believe in sustainability and transformation as the basis for future social and economic growth in South Africa.

Our support Programme aims to empower the parents by educating and transferring skills and knowledge that can be passed on to other members in the community. We aim to help encourage good and stable home environments to help educate children and benefit the next generation.

We hope these children will have the ability to earn a better income and have a better standard of life in the future, valuing their education opportunity and contributing to an educated and skilled workforce in South Africa.

 

"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world."
Nelson Mandela