The Fundi Foundation has launched its inaugural “Bring a Little Joy” campaign, committing R30 000 to help parents and caregivers settle school uniform lay-bys at PEP, Jet and Ackermans stores across South Africa. Designed to alleviate some of the back-to-school debt that burdens and debilitates families well into the year, corporates, companies and individuals are invited to join the “joy movement” by contributing directly to the campaign with a donation of their own.
School uniforms remain one of the most significant financial burdens facing households each January. “A staggering 95% of South African parents experience stress when preparing for the new school year, with 80% reporting that back-to-school costs set them back financially,” explains Sphiwe Masuku, Fundi Foundation spokesperson. School uniforms and fees remain the costliest items for 62% of families surveyed, with the minimum cost for a single Grade 8 learner now exceeding R5 000, with uniform essentials alone accounting for almost R2 700. “These costs have risen approximately 8% year-on-year – more than double the national inflation rate of 3.5%,” she adds.
“A school uniform is not simply about looking smart: it speaks about the courage, pride and possibility that education brings,” she notes. “For many parents however, covering uniform costs alone requires more than a full month of work – meaning the impact will be felt in the family well into the year. Through the ‘Bring a Little Joy’ campaign, we are hoping to assist in easing this burden.
“We cannot do it alone however, and are calling on all South Africans to join us in ensuring that no child continues the school year without the uniform they need to succeed.”
Given the systemic challenges families face in affording school uniforms, many parents resort to lay-by arrangements at retailers including PEP, Jet and Ackermans to spread the cost over several months. “Even these arrangements can become an additional financial burden when unexpected expenses arise, however.”
The campaign will see the Fundi Foundation contribute up to R1 000 towards qualifying school uniform lay-bys, which will be paid directly to the participating retail store. With R30 000 already committed to the campaign by the Foundation, they are hoping to at least double or triple this total through the generosity of corporates and individuals – assisting numerous families..
“A little joy goes a long way,” adds Masuku. “Your kindness can lift a burden, lighten a financial load and brighten a child’s entire year. Every donation, no matter how small, brings us closer to ensuring that more learners can walk through the school gates with their heads held high each day. Uniforms are the foundation upon which a child’s educational journey is built. They are a step towards success!”
Anyone wishing to donate to the “Bring a Little Joy” campaign and help more families afford school uniforms can donate online at https://fundifoundation.org/unite-for-schools-donation/. All funds raised will go directly towards settling school uniform lay-bys at PEP, Jet and Ackermans stores nationwide.
Please visit the Fundi Foundation website for full details of the campaign, donation options and terms and conditions.
“With the school year already in full swing and the relief of January salaries for many, please share a thought for others and give what you can,” encourages Masuku. “It will make a real difference when a child needs it most.”