The Local Surf Lounge Academy in Muizenberg, a non-profit organisation (NPO) aimed at youth (aged seven to 17) in Vrygrond, Capricorn Park and Lavender Hill, is in critical need of funds to keep its doors open.
In a public plea, Leah Barkhuizen, a surf coach and volunteer at the academy, said the NPO was “facing a critical situation”.
“As a non-profit organisation, we have been tirelessly working to provide a safe and positive environment for the children in our community.
“Today, I come to you with a plea for urgent funds to feed the local kids attending our safe zone and ensure their safety by keeping them off the streets and away from gang-related areas.
“Muizenberg is a vibrant and diverse community filled with incredible young minds and potential.
“However, it is no secret that some of our children face challenging circumstances that threaten their well-being and future.”
She adds that the academy has been a beacon of hope, offering children an escape from their daily struggles through the joy of surfing and a supportive community.
“Our safe zone has become a refuge for these children, providing them with a safe space to learn and grow.
“It is here that they receive mentorship, guidance and valuable life skills that empower them to make positive choices. However, we are now at a critical juncture, as we face a severe shortage of funds to continue running the safe zone effectively.”
The academy, founded by Shuan Solomons, won the Recreation Body of the Year award at the SA Sports Awards last year.
The club provides a safe space, meals, showers, surfboards and wetsuits to youth for free.
Youth also receive surf coaching and vocational training as a means to give young people an alternative to a life of poverty, gangs and hardship.
Basic costs to run the facility every month include R12 000 for rent, R1 000 for electricity and R2 000 for meals.
“We are asking local businesses in our community to support the children.
“It reduces crime and benefits the community by helping those less fortunate,” says Solomons.
“The club receives zero funding, all staff are unpaid volunteers and everything we do is scraped together each month by donations from kind-hearted citizens. We are working on ways to make the programme financially sustainable.”
- For more information visit https://smallthingsfoundation.org/help/
