Treasurer’s Comments

HOMECOMING! Yes, and it truly is a Homecoming with Rev. Spiwo Xapile and Olga Xapile joining us for our Homecoming Event! We welcome our South African family with joy and open AIAIA arms.

I would like to share a comparison of our food parcels over the years.

2006 — $50 buys enough food to feed an entire family of 4 for a month or more in Malungeni.

2022 — $65 buys enough food to feed a family for 3 weeks in Malungeni. Crime, COVID, and more people living in one home has made our food distribution difficult at best. Distribution has been split into 2 days for health reasons and we have hired security to help buy and distribute the food.

Our current 2022 food budget is $201,000 with 5 partners now on a quarterly basis for distribution and others as needed. We are hoping to raise $165,000 at our Homecoming Event with the purchase of a $65 ticket and donations from those who cannot join us. That price represents the 2022 cost of a food parcel. So, when a ticket is bought for Homecoming, know dinner is included and you also will be contributing to feeding our family in South Africa. (Tax deduction for $65 ticket is $15.)

If you are unable to attend, we will miss you!!! But know your support is vital. Every penny donated helps us to reach our goal. We know you will give from the heart to help our family in South Africa. Donate Here.

Thank you. Thank you all. Over my 20 years of going to South Africa one thing I learned about the AIAIA community is your generosity is unwavering and from the heart.

Have a warm, sunny, loving summer. AIAIA is anxious to see all of our family, here and from South Africa. Blessings to all.

Pat Murphy, Executive Vice President