The SPAR Group says that its donation funds Cancervive's annual flagship outreach and education programme, which aims to raise awareness about cancer prevention, early detection, as well as providing care sessions in adult and children's oncology wards across the country.

The contribution is a significant boost to Cancervive's mission, enabling the organisation to expand its reach and continue its work in underserved communities where cancer awareness and education are most needed, says SPAR. 

With cancer now being the leading cause of death in South Africa, the need for programmes like Cancervive's has never been greater, says the group.

"At the SPAR Group, we believe in the power of partnerships to make a real difference in people's lives," says Mpudi Maubane, National PR, Communications and Sponsorship Manager at the SPAR Group. 

"Our donation to Cancervive is part of our broader commitment to education, and we are proud to support Cancervive in their fight to raise awareness, educate and support cancer survivors. This is more than a financial contribution; it is an investment in the health and well-being of our communities," adds Maubane.

Cancervive's unique approach to cancer awareness is a key reason SPAR has supported the organisation for the past 13 years. 

According to the group, founded by women who have battled cancer themselves, the NPO deeply understands the critical need for education and support in this area. 

Their personal experiences bring authenticity to the information and assistance the NPO provides, and through powerful and creative campaigns — like its annual motorbike rides across South Africa  — the NPO brings cancer education to life in a vibrant and impactful way, says SPAR.

These rides are not just a spectacle, but a platform for survivors to share their stories, raise awareness and break the stigma surrounding cancer, especially in rural and underserved communities. SPAR says that the donation from the SPAR Group is used towards awareness rides, survivor empowerment initiatives and educational programmes designed to reach individuals in all corners of the country.

In addition to the R1.2-million donation, SPAR and Cancervive collaborate on a series of initiatives aimed at further raising awareness and engaging communities across South Africa, like the Cancervive 'Care sessions' in Oncology wards where lack of critical equipment and financial pressure has been a huge concern. The SPAR Group says that it regularly assesses these needs with hospital administrators and provides equipment where possible.

In addition, SPAR says that its stores nationwide work with Cancervive to support fundraising events, awareness drives and survivor storytelling sessions to promote early detection and cancer prevention. These initiatives provide a platform for individuals and families in rural areas to learn more about the risks associated with cancer and the importance of regular screenings.

"Thanks to SPAR's generous donation, we will be able to scale up our operations and reach even more people who desperately need access to cancer education and support," says Marlene Nortje, CEO at Cancervive.

"Our partnership with SPAR, and the ongoing support we receive from the owners of independent SPAR stores across the country, is a testament to the power of community, and together, we are breaking the silence around cancer and empowering survivors to live full, meaningful lives," adds Nortje.

"Cancervive's mission resonates strongly with our SPAR values," says Maubane.

"We are committed to the well-being of our customers and the communities we serve. This partnership allows us to actively participate in the fight against cancer, a disease that impacts countless South African families. Through education, awareness and practical support, we strive to make the journey easier for those affected," concludes Maubane.

For more information, visit www.spar.co.za. You can also follow the SPAR Group on Facebook.

*Image courtesy of contributor