Cupcakes of Hope: R2.1m raised by SA community for children with cancer

South Africans have once again shown their power to care for their own, raising more than R2.1 million through the sale of cupcakes at 87 malls across the country, all in support of children battling cancer.

Cupcakes of Hope, the non-profit organisation behind National Cupcake Day, said this year's campaign, held on the last weekend of September, raised R2 106 021, edging past the R2 092 310 collected in 2025.

How the community made it happen

The flagship fundraiser, held at 87 shopping centres nationwide, drew 3 100 volunteer bakers, known as Cupcake Angels, who collectively pledged 117 886 cupcakes.

That was a jump from the 2 400 bakers who took part at 79 malls last year, and from the 1 992 bakers who raised R2.3 million in 2024. Eight more malls joined the campaign this year, bringing the total to 87.

“What a blessing this has been,” Cupcakes of Hope said after the results were tallied. “Every cupcake baked, every donation made, every hour given, and every prayer lifted has played a part in making a difference in the lives of little cancer patients.”

In total, the campaign has now raised well over R6 million over the past three years alone, money that goes directly towards supporting families navigating childhood cancer.

How the cupcake campaign works

Volunteers register online, choose a participating mall and pledge to bake 24 cupcakes. Members of the public then donate between R15 and R25 per cupcake.

People who cannot bake are encouraged to visit participating malls on the day and buy cupcakes in exchange for a donation. Schools, churches and businesses also organise pop-up fundraisers to extend the campaign's reach.

This year, malls from Cape Town to Musina took part, making it the organisation's biggest community-driven fundraising event.

The scale of this year's event means that on a single Saturday, a cupcake changed hands roughly every other second.

Cupcakes of Hope also encourages people to pledge larger batches of 48 or 96 cupcakes, and bakers need not be professionals. The only requirement is a willingness to help.

‘Every Cupcake Angel helps make that possible’

Cupcakes of Hope was founded by Sandy Cipriano in 2012, after her own experience with childhood cancer inspired her to help other families facing the same journey.

What began as a small fundraiser at a restaurant has grown into a nationwide campaign that has assisted more than 10 000 families over the years.

“When a child is diagnosed with cancer, life changes instantly for the whole family,” said Cipriano. “Parents suddenly find themselves travelling long distances for treatment, taking time away from work and facing expenses they never expected. We can't take away a child's diagnosis, but we can help ease some of the practical, emotional and financial pressures so families can focus on what matters most: their child. Every Cupcake Angel helps make that possible.”

Where the money goes

The funds raised cover medical bills, transport, nutrition, wheelchairs and prosthetics for young cancer patients and their families.

Cupcakes of Hope currently supports more than 140 children every month, with most beneficiaries referred by social workers and doctors.

In July alone, more than 200 children received financial assistance through the organisation.

Last year, it approved almost 2 000 requests for financial assistance and delivered 3 766 Hospital Care Bags to children in all 21 paediatric oncology wards across South Africa.

The campaign takes place during September, which is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.

‘This is what happens when we come together’

This year's increase in both funds raised and volunteer numbers suggests the campaign is continuing to gain momentum, even as the need for support grows.

“Because of your generosity, we can continue assisting more than 140 little cancer patients every month, bringing practical help, hope and love when it is needed most,” the organisation said.

Schools and companies interested in getting involved with Cupcakes of Hope can visit cupcakesofhope.org to find contact details.

Those wanting to become Cupcake Angels for next year's campaign can register online, choose their nearest participating shopping centre and pledge 24 cupcakes.