Stichting Oud in Afrika (the 'Old in Africa' Foundation) is a charity providing assistance to the elderly in Africa. Your donation is greatly needed. Oud in Afrika's aim is to help those who are unable to care for themselves and who receive inadequate care from any other sources. There is also support to care giving elderly looking after orphaned children. The traditional care and support system that was formerly available for the elderly is/has crumbled due to the weakening of the extended family support system now under heavy attack by the HIV/AIDS scourge and war in Africa. The sons and daughters who formerly provided care have been depleted, calling for the elderly to take on roles that they are ill- equipped for. They have to take care of themselves while most have the added burden of caring for their orphaned grandchildren. Without support, the older persons cannot cope. The support and assistance given to elderly people will be provided by local organisations. Keywords for finding local partners are: transparency, knowledge, integrity and financial security with regards to the money spent on the assistance and support given.

On the spot aid
Oud in Afrika contributes towards the costs of practical, on-the-spot aid. That aid is provided by specialist organisations who are familiar with the local situation - who know the elderly people and their circumstances. Such organisations are locally accredited, are well run and enjoy sound financial management. Needless to say, they provide a full statement of how the funds provided by Oud in Afrika are allocated. Each presents a breakdown of planned activities, with relevant budget, before undertaking the relevant activities.
The help provided by such local organisations may include:
providing medical supplies: walking frames, bed linen, etc. arranging paramedical help & food, visiting the elderly and helping with general everyday activities (shopping, washing, tidying up).

How we support local organisations
In the majority of cases, such help is provided to elderly people living alone. The aim is to help the recipient lead a dignified existence, living independently in the community for as long as possible. Oud in Afrika does not couple donors to recipients; there is no 'adoption' programme. This is mainly because adoption programmes are expensive: both administration and communication divert valuable resources which can be put to far better use in providing actual aid. Of course, it remains possible to examine how the local partner has allocated funds, right down to the individual level, and hence how the donations made to Oud in Afrika have been spent. The local organizations and Oud in Afrika itself produce annual accounts, audited by a duly accredited accountant.

Boardmembers
Please do not hesitate to contact us for more or more detailed information.

Chairman - Henk van Stokkom

Treasurer - Koen Vliegenthart                                               

Secretary - Esther Veninga - Van der Veen                                                

Boardmember - Marjo van Stokkom - Lozie

Boardmember - John Verhoeven