Donations to charity organisations are humbling

"Deciding what to donate is not always easy. The best is to call the organisation you wish to support and ask them what their greatest needs are. For example, in the case of children's homes, things that are often needed daily range from fruit, vegetables, meat products, sleepwear, nappies and toiletries, " says Bester.

Educational books are also very useful and always needed at most children's home to help provide the children with introductory education, as most of them have no prior exposure to basic education.

Money is practical

Some charities or organisations might prefer money. This is mainly because money is very practical and allows charities to buy precisely what is needed and in right quantities, at the same time avoiding wastage. For example, if large quantities of perishables are received at once, some of it will become rotten and eventually thrown away.

A final consideration is whether instead of making a big donation at the end of year, businesses should commit to smaller monthly donations of food, money or time. This way, businesses and communities are able to contribute in a more steady and sustainable way.

"We want to keep providing safe homes, food, education and love to those who need it the most, and ongoing monthly support would make that so much easier. However, any donation, at any time of year, is wonderful and much appreciated," Bester says.

If people would like to get involved with Heaven's Nest, call her on +27 (0)21 703 9781, send an email to ten.asmoklet@tsensnevaeh or go to www.heavensnest.org.za.