How Spar donations are transforming lives in South Africa

Spar UK is delighted to highlight the incredible impact of its donation of over £30,000 to It Belongs To Me NPC, an organisation empowering vulnerable women, men and children in Rustenburg, South Africa.

The contribution, alongside books, toys, stationery and toiletries, has enabled the organisation to deliver life-changing programmes and projects in its community.

The partnership began at the 2024 Spar national conference in Sun City, where attendees were inspired by Khumo Phalatse, founder of It Belongs To Me NPC, and her story of resilience. The Spar donation has helped to renovate a previously modest facility into a vibrant hub for learning and community engagement, create a new library (above) which now provides educational materials and career workshops and serving as a beacon of opportunity for local youth and women and to support volunteers who have undergone training in counselling and youth development, ensuring the organisation has the skills needed to sustain its programmes.

Khumo Phalatse, founder, said: “This donation has transformed not just our centre, but the lives of so many in our community. What began as a small spark of hope has now grown into a vibrant space of safety, learning, and healing. Thanks to everyone who attended the SPAR UK conference, we’ve created something that will last – a place that inspires and empowers those who need it most.”

Dominic Hall, chair of the National Guild of Spar, added: “We believe in making a meaningful difference in the communities we serve, both at home and abroad. Supporting It Belongs To Me NPC has been an incredibly rewarding experience, and we’re inspired by Khumo’s dedication and resilience. This partnership highlights the power of collective effort and the profound impact it can have.”