Frequently Asked Questions

At Missions Ablaze, we know that donors, volunteers, and partners may have important questions before getting involved. This page answers the most common questions about who we are, how to donate, volunteering, tax benefits, corporate partnerships, international contributions, and more. If you don’t find what you’re looking for below, feel free to contact us — we’re happy to help.

About Missions Ablaze

  • Where is Missions Ablaze located?

    We are based in Tongaat, KwaZulu-Natal, about 40km from Durban, South Africa.

  • Where is Missions Ablaze based?

    Our outreach supports local communities and responds to disaster-affected areas across South Africa.

  • How long has Missions Ablaze been helping the community?

    Since 1995, Missions Ablaze has served families in need through food distribution, faith-based outreach, and disaster relief—led entirely by volunteers.

Our Work and Impact

  • What does Missions Ablaze do to fight hunger in South Africa?

    We provide daily meals to children and families, deliver emergency relief, and distribute clothing and essentials to those facing hardship.

  • Do you respond to disasters or emergencies?

    Yes. We respond to floods, fires, and other crises across South Africa by providing food, blankets, clothing, hygiene supplies, and other urgent aid.

  • How does Missions Ablaze help during natural disasters in South Africa?

    Our team mobilises quickly to provide direct relief to disaster-hit communities, especially in KwaZulu-Natal.

  • Can I donate goods for flood or disaster victims in South Africa?

    Yes. We accept non-perishable food, clothing, blankets, and hygiene products to support disaster relief efforts.

  • How is my donation used?

    Your donation helps:

    • Provide meals to children and families
    • Distribute essential clothing and hygiene supplies
    • Support local outreach and community programs
    • Fund emergency disaster response
  • How can I stay updated on Missions Ablaze’s work?

    Follow us on Facebook or contact us directly for stories, updates, and opportunities to get involved.

Donations and Tax Benefits

  • What are the different ways I can donate to Missions Ablaze?

    You can give through:

    • PayFast (for South African donations)

    • PayPal (local & international)

    • Bank transfer (EFT)

    • Zapper (QR code for mobile giving)

    Click here for more information.

  • Can I donate directly via bank transfer (EFT)?

    Yes. EFT details:

    • Bank: FNB Ballito
    • Account Name: Missions Ablaze NPO
    • Account Number: 63017866039
    • Branch Code: 250655
    • SWIFT Code: FIRNZAJJ (for international use)
    • Email ablaze@global.co.za to request your tax certificate.
  • Is it safe to donate online through PayFast or PayPal?

    Yes. Both platforms are secure and encrypted. We do not store your payment information.

  • Can I make a recurring monthly donation?

    Yes. PayFast and PayPal both support monthly giving. Even small amounts make a big difference over time. View our donation page for more information.

  • Do you accept mobile payments like Zapper?

    Yes! You can scan our Zapper QR code to donate quickly and securely using your phone.

  • What is the best way to donate to a non-profit in South Africa?

    Online via our website is quick and secure. We also accept EFTs, in-kind donations, and monthly gifts.

  • Is my donation to Missions Ablaze tax-deductible in South Africa?

    Yes. As a Section 18A-approved PBO, qualifying donations are eligible for tax deductions.

  • Who can claim a Section 18A deduction?

    South African individuals, businesses, and trusts can claim up to 10% of taxable income in donations.
    Consult a tax professional for personal guidance.

  • Do I need a receipt or certificate for tax purposes?

    Yes. We provide a Section 18A tax certificate for all qualifying donations on request.

  • Can I make a donation in honour of someone?

    Yes. We welcome tribute donations. Let us know who the donation honours and we’ll provide a formal acknowledgement.

  • What types of donations do you accept?

    • Once-off or monthly financial gifts
    • Non-perishable food, clothing, blankets, school supplies
    • Corporate or organisational sponsorships
  • How do I know my donation is being used properly?

    As a registered NPO, we operate with full transparency. All donations are tracked and used for their intended purpose, with oversight from our Board of Trustees.

  • What information do I need to provide to receive a Section 18A tax certificate?

    As of 1 March 2023, new SARS regulations require donors to provide specific details in order to receive a valid Section 18A tax certificate for claiming a tax deduction. This is in line with the amendments to the Income Tax Act published in Government Gazette No. 48104.

    To issue a compliant certificate, Missions Ablaze (as a registered PBO) must now collect the following information from donors:

    • Type of donor (e.g. individual, company, trust)
    • ID type and country of issue (for individuals)
    • Donor ID or registration number
    • Donor’s tax reference number (if available)
    • Donor’s contact number
    • Donor’s email address
    • A unique receipt number
    • Donor’s trading name (if different from their legal name)

    Please ensure this information is included when making a donation and requesting a Section 18A certificate. Only SARS-approved PBOs—like Missions Ablaze—are permitted to issue these certificates.

  • What qualifies for a Section 18A certificate?

    • Monetary donations
    • Donations of goods (e.g. food, clothing, materials, equipment)

    Please note: Services do not qualify. While we deeply value donated services—such as your time, skills, or professional support—SARS does not permit tax certificates for donated services or labour. However, we are happy to provide a formal letter of appreciation and acknowledge your partnership publicly.

Volunteering and Getting Involved

  • How can I volunteer with Missions Ablaze?

    You can:

    • Pack and distribute meals
    • Support events and drives
    • Assist with logistics or admin
    • Serve on-site at our mission base
  • How can I volunteer for a charity near Durban or Tongaat?

    We’re based near Durban and always welcome volunteers from the local area and beyond.

  • Are there faith-based volunteering opportunities in South Africa?

    Yes. Missions Ablaze is a faith-driven organisation where volunteers can serve with purpose and compassion.

  • Can groups or churches volunteer together?

    Yes! We work with schools, churches, and volunteer teams. Contact us to organise a group visit or service project.

  • Can I visit the mission station?

    Yes. We love welcoming visitors—please reach out to arrange a time.

  • Can businesses partner with Missions Ablaze?

    Absolutely. Businesses often support us through:

    • Sponsorships
    • Staff volunteer days
    • Goods drives or donations
  • What types of organisations can partner with a NPO in South Africa?

    Any business, individual, school, or church can collaborate with us to support our work and help serve local communities.

Corporate Involvement

  • How can my company partner with Missions Ablaze?

    Companies can:

    • Sponsor meals or programs
    • Volunteer as a team
    • Host donation drives
    • Offer in-kind or pro bono support
  • Do you offer volunteer opportunities for corporate teams?

    Yes! We offer tailored volunteer days for:

    • Mandela Day (67 Minutes)
    • Year-end CSR initiatives
    • Community outreach activities
  • Can Missions Ablaze be part of our Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) plan?

    Yes. As a PBO, supporting Missions Ablaze can align with your CSR goals and, in some cases, your B-BBEE strategy (depending on how donations and involvement are structured).

  • Do you acknowledge corporate partnerships?

     Yes. We offer:

    • Certificates of appreciation
    • Tax receipts
    • Optional public recognition (social media, reports, etc.)

International Giving & Sponsorships

  • Can international donors give to Missions Ablaze?

    Yes. Use PayPal or international EFT with our SWIFT code. Visit our donations page or email us for assistance or acknowledgment of your gift.

  • Can I sponsor a specific need from overseas?

    Yes. International sponsors can support:

    • Food parcels
    • Disaster relief
    • Children’s outreach initiatives

    Let us know your area of interest—we’ll help direct your donation where it’s needed most.

  • Can international churches or organisations partner with Missions Ablaze?

    Yes. We have long-standing relationships with churches abroad and welcome new international sponsors or partner ministries.

  • Do international donors receive updates or acknowledgements?

    Yes. We’ll send a receipt and, upon request, we’re happy to share photos, stories, or letters about how your gift was used.

Mandela Day & Special Drives

  • Can our company volunteer with Missions Ablaze for Mandela Day?

    Yes! We host meaningful Mandela Day activities for teams—such as packing meals, running drives, or assisting with local outreach.

  • Can we choose Missions Ablaze as our Mandela Day donation partner?

    Absolutely. Many groups choose to support our work through:

    • Donations
    • Blanket drives
    • Food parcel collections
    • Hygiene kit assemblies
  • Do you help organise food or blanket drives?

    Yes. We’ll assist with planning, collecting, and distributing goods. Whether you’re a business, school, or individual—we’ll help make it easy and impactful.

  • Still have questions?

    We’d love to hear from you.
    Email us at: ablaze@global.co.za
    Call: +27 32 945 0185