The MyPlayers Benevolent Fund, the official charity vehicle of all professional rugby players in South Africa was on hand to make a donation to ENGO Child and Youth Care in Bloemfontein today.

This is the fourth donation made by the players in a series of contributions scheduled to be made across the country. Toyota Cheetahs eighth-man Philip van der Walt, flank Boom Prinsloo and Francois Venter representing professional players in the Bloemfontein region handed over a cheque for R20 000 to the locally based organisation.

"As players we are fortunate to play professional rugby and we felt it is important to give back to communities in our playing areas" said van der Walt.

Free State Rugby supports Credo Home of Hope.  Credo Home of Hope is the charity leg of African Mining and Crushing, sponsor of the Toyota Cheetahs and Toyota Free State Cheetahs. Their aim is to make a difference in the lives of people and children. This is why they are involved with Engo Child and Youth Care.

We have chosen Credo Home of Hope as our charity organisation to support ENGO child and youth care. The players are both proud and excited to be associated with the wonderful work they do with those in need of support. This occasion is indeed unique because for the first time we as professional players get the opportunity to decide who to lend a hand to, concluded van der Walt.

Frikkie van Dykof ENGO received the cheque on behalf of the organisation. "We would like to thank MyPlayers for their contribution as this amount will go a long way in helping the kids at our organisation".

Engo Child and Youth Care provides full-time care for children who were removed from their parental homes as they were regarded to be in urgent need of care and protection by a Children’s Court.

Approximately 800 children from the ages 0 to 18 years, in 34 child and youth care centres, across the Free State are being cared for.These child and youth care centres create a homely atmosphere for the children and is located within the community. Additional assistance and support are provided to approximately 3000 children who are orphaned, vulnerable or at risk in surrounding communities. The vision is to create hope in the lives of children. The goal is to provide protection and care for as many children in the Free State as possible.

The MyPlayers Benevolent Fund is scheduled to make 12 more of these donations throughout the country during the year. Players from the Lions were the first Super Rugby franchise to make their contribution in Johannesburg this year.

For more go to www.myplayers.co.za or contact Nyaniso Sam on 082 491 8901