The management and staff of Yokhuselo Haven thanked residents of Gqeberha for the R60 000 donation they received, thanks to ticket sales for the Voice of Courage Fashion Show held this month.
Antonette Hamman, the accountant at the Haven said they are also grateful to Boardwalk Hotel and Casino, to the fashion designers and hairstylists who participated, to the Woolworths make-up division and Camelot Spa for their kindness, “Up to 11 ladies and children can stay with us so the money will be put to good use to pay for electricity, water and other essential services, along with putting food on the tables, buying toiletries and medicines, and filling our tanks with petrol to transport the women to court and back.
“It costs R35 000 to provide a safe haven to women and children who have nowhere else to turn. Their abusers often control the money they earn, but for those who do have a job we are able to help them get alternative accommodation. We also get them trauma counselling and walk them through the legal process of procuring protection orders from the courts.”
The Haven also provides skills training to help residents to find jobs, which can take a while, and the children also need books and other educational tools. “The youngsters love the dining area because many have never seen a table before. With us they also get a warm bed, a cosy lounge, a kitchen and even a playroom area.”
Boardwalk General Manager Tati Tsunke said, “There is no room for gender based violence to exist in 2025. Let us all continue to unite to provide crucial organisations like Yokhuselo Haven with the resources they need to give these vulnerable women and children alternatives in their lives.”
