Philisa Abafazi Bethu Women Centre based in Retreat is appealing for assistance with donations for their centre after the school roof collapsed and fences were damaged in the storm on Monday, 11 May.
The non-profit organisation (NPO), Philisa Abafazi Bethu (Xhosa for “Heal Our Women”) was founded in 2008 by Lucinda Evans. It also supports victims of gender-based violence, domestic abuse and children through safe houses, legal/counselling support and community empowerment.
Storm Damage
On Monday morning, the school alarm was activated after the safehouse gate as well as the ECD’s roof blew away, Evans recalls.
The children were sent home before the storm worsened, she adds.
Urgent Appeal
“The gate just flew open and the alarm went off. I need welders to come and fix the gate as well as someone to come inspect the motor of the gate. The rail is completely broken. I also need 20 poles and 60 vibracrete slabs to fix the wall of the children’s warehouse. We are worried about the security,” she said.
This facility helps shelter vulnerable children and women who were affected by gender-based violence. Earlier in March, Philisa celebrated the launch of their Young Minds Academy, a large part of this facility was damaged in the storm as large steel sheets were seen laying in the playground section of the academy.
Community Support
Young minds is an initiative that was developed through a collaboration between Pyma, the Rotary Club of Newlands and Coca-Cola Peninsula Beverages, along with other community partners. Philisa is now appealing for assistance with donations to help them manage this crisis.
“Your support will help us restore safety, rebuild security and continue offering hope,” she said.
For more information, contact Evans on 073 424 4665.
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