R1,3 million for local charities

KNYSNA NEWS - Seventy-four local charitable organisations last week received a boost from Knysna Municipality when mayor Mark Willemse handed over grants-in-aid (GIA) worth R1.3-million in council's chambers.

Addressing those in attendance numbering about 100 people, including recipients, on Wednesday 13 March, Willemse said no monetary value could be placed on the important role NGOs and sports clubs play in the community.

"The (GIA) committee and I took some time to visit some of the organisations that applied. It was an emotional experience and heartwarming to see the hard work with very little resources that the people put in, getting nothing in return except knowing they have made a difference in people's lives."

Willemse said a workshop is needed to explain to prospective applicants how the process works. "I would like the administration department to offer a workshop to applicants to make the process easier.

Going forward there should be an educational session to equip people with knowledge regarding the grant-in-aid policy and the application and awarding procedure, in so doing ensuring their applications are correctly filled in."

Knysna mayor with delegates from one of the grant-in-aid recipients, Masakhane Service Centre.