Le Patch Charity Shop in Somerset West is dependent on the generosity of compassionate Helderbergers who open their hearts to a cause, and in dire need of additional support which, if adequate enough, will aid future development and an expanded offering.
The shop was inspired by a need to have a self-sustainable internal fundraising project which aids Patch, the Helderberg centre for child victims of sexual abuse by means of generating financial support for the organisation which continues to offer an invaluable service to the community as a beacon of hope to little ones who have survived devastating trauma. However, both the shop and centre rely on donations for its continued operation and survival.
“It has been a great opportunity to undertake this project and turn [the shop] into a functional space,” said Le Patch Charity Shop manager Robin Chiriseri, who for long had been trying to realise the idea of incorporating a coffee trailer on the premises (“With love, Le Patch,” DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette, 14 September 2022).
“With added support we hope to even establish the addition of a flea market with vendors, which would not only provide for extra income for all involved but increased exposure for the Patch brand, namely who we are and what we mean for the community.”
For those who may not know, Patch is the acronym for the Prevention And Treatment of Child Sexual Abuse in the Helderberg and its surrounding areas.
With a title that is self-explanatory, this is precisely what the organisation has been doing since it began operating on 2 June 1992.
After more than 30 years of performing this rather sensitive, yet necessary function, Patch remains the only organisation in the entire Helderberg that provides free prevention, therapeutic, medical and court support to child victims of rape and sexual abuse (“Patch in dire need of your help,” Netwerk24, 14 July 2023).
Le Patch Charity Shop is based at the Patch centre, on the corner of Dummer and Dorhill Street, and offers clothing for women, men and children, sportswear, shoes, a variety of bags including school and travelling, toys, bedding, kitchenware and furniture. The offering is made up of lovingly donated items, which is sold to generate income and boost the organisation’s coffer.
“The proceeds are used to assist and support victims of child sexual abuse through implementation of forensic assessments and therapeutic intervention,” said Chiriseri. “Some of the proceeds are also used to cover the organisation’s operational costs and development.
“We need more feet through the shop and, more importantly, the community’s support and generosity.
“Locals can support by visiting the shop and purchasing products. Donating items that can be on offer at the shop, particularly businesses and retail stores with unwanted inventory, clothes and products at their disposal. Funds for an expert to help with advertisement and marketing of the shop by establishing its own website and social media accounts.”
For more information or to offer your support, visit Patch Helderberg Child Abuse Centre; or call the offices on 021 852 6110. Alternatively, contact Chiriseri on 071 275 0371. The shop is open daily from 08:00 to 16:00 from Monday to Friday and from 08:00 to 12:00 every month-end Saturday.
