Join the Cape Care Fund: Businesses, NPOs, and Citizens to Unite for Vulnerable Communities
The Western Cape Department of Social Development (DSD) is calling on local businesses, non-profit organisations (NPOs), corporate partners, and individuals to partner with government through the Cape Care Fund to support and uplift vulnerable communities across the province.
At a recent stakeholder engagement event hosted by Dorette Potgieter Productions, leaders across civil society and the private sector met to map out actionable pathways for cross-sector collaboration. The central message from the engagement was clear: addressing the Western Cape’s social challenges requires a whole-of-society approach.
"Government cannot address the complex social challenges facing our communities alone," said Minister Kaizer-Philander. "We need businesses, civil society, and skilled individuals to come alongside us and contribute in whatever way they can. The Cape Care Fund provides a direct bridge to turn goodwill into meaningful, sustainable support for vulnerable residents. We urge everyone with the heart, skills, and resources to join us."
Non-profit organisations play an indispensable role in delivering essential services to vulnerable citizens, often while navigating severe resource constraints. By connecting NPOs directly with businesses, corporate social investment (CSI) funds, and skilled professionals, the Cape Care Fund helps scale community-led solutions, strengthen operational capacity, and extend the reach of support across the Western Cape.
"The impact of these partnerships was made evident earlier this month with the launch of an inclusive playground at a disability day care centre in Mfuleni. Made possible through the support of an international donor and PPC Cement, the playground ensures that children with disabilities can enjoy the opportunity to play alongside their peers."
One of the teachers at the centre shared the positive impact the playground has had on the children:
"From the moment the children began using the playground, we saw smiles, laughter and pure joy. One of the most touching moments was seeing a child who normally spends his day in a buggy, unable to move independently, fully engaged and enjoying the experience. The playground has also helped children grow in confidence and independence, while encouraging social interaction, sharing and playing together."
Minister Kaizer-Philander extended sincere appreciation to Dorette Potgieter Productions for bringing together key stakeholders from diverse sectors to share ideas, build strategic networks, and ignite this initiative.
There are various ways stakeholders can participate in and support the initiative. Businesses and corporate partners can collaborate through Corporate Social Investment (CSI) initiatives, funding, sponsorship, or strategic resource allocation.
Skilled professionals and individuals can offer pro-bono expertise, mentorship, or volunteer support, while NPOs and community organisations are encouraged to register, share networks, and co-create targeted community interventions. Interested stakeholders are encouraged to contact the Western Cape Department of Social Development to discuss partnership opportunities.
Media enquiries
Eslynn Apollis
Media Liaison Officer
Provincial Minister Wendy Kaizer-Philander
Department of Social Development