Knysna Executive Mayor Georlene Wolmarans, handed over more than half a million rand in the Grant in Aid to 56 beneficiaries.
The handover took place Tuesday at the Council Chambers.
Addressing beneficiaris, Mayor Wolmarans said that the Grant in Aid fund is not merely about providing funds but also includes social upliftment.
"I often say that I believe that we all have a responsibility towards one another. A responsibility of doing something every day that makes the world a better place, and that makes Knysna a better town. You are all here to receive aid, because I believe that you are taking this responsibility seriously, and that your organisations deserve our assistance in making a change within our communities," Wolmarans said.
"I will be handing over a total of over half a million Rand, R542 500.00 to be exact. We are overwhelmed by applications once these are invited through advertisements in the press and can, unfortunately, not assist everyone. It is, in fact, near impossible for us to even grant all of you, our successful applicants, the full amount you requested. But I believe that these cheques will represent a welcome contribution to furthering your efforts in working for our communities."
She explained that the Grant in Aid fund is not merely about providing funds but also includes social upliftment. "Today we are assisting organisations that promote arts and culture, educational institutions, environmental organisations, welfare organisations, youth organisations and sporting bodies. Each of these work towards the betterment of Knysna and its people, and I am proud to be able to assist you in these endeavours."
She also pleaded with the organisations to find other means of getting funding, "I must however urge you to continue investigating alternative methods of fundraising to become sustainable organisations in your own right."
Wolmarans expressed her gratitude for all the hard work the organisations do for the Greater Knysna. "Thank you for the work you do. Many of you work on a voluntary basis without recognition for the important role you play in developing our town and her people," said Wolmarans.
