Small change is a big help, says ABSA

Financial Services Group, ABSA, in association with the SABC, is urging South Africans to shake out their pockets to show how small change can make a big difference in the lives of children infected with or affected by HIV/AIDS.

Running with the theme "We need change. Let's make a difference together", members of the public have until 15 January 2003 to collect coins and deposit them in bins at ABSA branches. The campaign supports the Reserve Bank's drive to collect one-cent and two-cent coins that are still in circulation.

Although the coins are still legal tender, the Reserve Bank discontinued the minting and distribution of one-cent and two-cent coins in March this year, as it cost around nine-cents to produce a one-cent and 11-cents to produce a two-cent coin.

"There are currently R130 million one- and two-cent coins in circulation. Just think what an effect it would have if we all donated those boxes of loose change lying around our homes to this worthwhile cause", says Gail Campbell, General Manager of ABSA's Corporate & Social Investment division.

The public will be encouraged via extensive radio, print and television campaigns to support the campaign. There is no need for people to stand in long queues to make their contribution, as custom-made money boxes will be placed in ABSA branches and provincial offices countrywide. Bins will also be placed at the SABC head office in Auckland Park, Johannesburg.

"Through the campaign we want to create widespread awareness of HIV/AIDS and focus on the prejudice and stigma associated with the epidemic. Large corporations such as ABSA have an educational role to play. We can create awareness and influence public perceptions regarding HIV/AIDS".

Last year, as part of the World AIDS Day fundraising, ABSA staff members sold AIDS badges to create widespread awareness of the HIV/AIDS pandemic. Over R1 million was raised for the Nelson Mandela Children's Fund. "ABSA staff actively take part in our annual fundraising initiatives on World AIDS Day, and we encourage them to take ownership of the HIV/AIDS pandemic", says Campbell.

Says Kitty Scott, Project Manager of SABC's Corporate & Social Investment division "We at the SABC are committed to being a caring broadcaster. To this end our HIV/AIDS campaigns are geared towards moving the nation 'from awareness to action'".

Companies or individuals who wish to make contributions can deposit money in the ABSA AIDS Account No: 405 430 9404, ABSA Towers North.

For more information, please contact:
Gail Campbell
General Manager
ABSA Corporate & Social Investment
(011) 350-6550