Siyaphambili gives help to vulnerable

KAROO NEWS - While many of us have never been in dire need of a safe haven to escape from harsh and violent domestic circumstances, some women and children from our town cannot say the same.

Luckily the Siyaphambili Safe Haven has opened its heart and doors to those left destitute by their circumstances.

This place of safety has been operating for over a year and aims to provide free shelter, food and counselling to victims of domestic abuse.

With no financial assistance from the government, they rely fully on donations and funding from institutions and the public.

"The statistics on domestic abuse in our town is staggeringly high and a daily challenge for many of the women and children in our town," says Diane Bertram, professional councillor and patron of the Siyaphambili Safe Haven. The centre hosts many state witnesses and people without a safe place to stay when fleeing their circumstances.

It provides a safe environment in which these victims are heard, understood and equipped with the necessary tools and guidance to retake their place in society.

Even though the centre plays a vital and important role in our community, the running costs are increasingly high.

The house in which the centre currently operates was generously provided free of charge, but the building has since been sold and come end December, the centre would have to close should they not be able to procure another property.

This would leave an already struggling community of women and children without a safe place in times of need.

The centre is professionally run as an NGO by committed and experienced volunteers and a committee that follow a rigorous screening process assessing each case according to set criteria.

It would be a great loss for the community should Siyaphambili have to close its doors. Residents, businesses and community leaders are urged to help with donations such as financial assistance, dry food, basic sanitary items, bedding or any item(s) that could assist in their endeavour. Their greatest need is of course a building that can accommodate up to eight people at a time at a low rent or at no cost.

The work this centre does in our community is invaluable; it is done with discretion, empathy and the purest of intent.

The location of the centre is also kept private to ensure the safety and discretion of the victims.

It is not a "good-deed photo opportunity" operation, but a completely selfless act of compassion to all those involved.

Should anyone be willing to assist in any way, please contact Diane Bertram on 083 578 1413 directly and she will guide the process from there. Any contribution, regardless of size, will be greatly appreciated.

To assist Siyaphambili Safe Haven in any way, contact Diane Bertram on the contact details provided.