SnAPSA and retailers step up with donations to Bombani Shelter
Southern Africa Partners SA rallies community support for women and children who are survivors of abuse.
As the fight against South Africa’s alarming rate of domestic violence persists, Southern Africa Partners SA (SnAPSA) shared a thought for survivors at Bombani Shelter, a vital refuge for women and children fleeing abuse.
The scale of gender-based violence (GBV), especially in Alexandra, underscores the need for sustained contributions to shelters serving as safe havens for survivors, and Shoprite in Alexandra Plaza and Boxer in Pan Africa Shopping Centre stepped up with donations. Modest as they may be, SnAPSA’s Zamashasha Hlengwa believes they will go a long way in helping some of the women and children at the shelter.
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This sentiment was echoed by the branch manager of Shoprite, Thabiso Mashitwa, on July 14, during SnAPSA’s visit to the store to collect items donated for Bombani shelter. While she expressed the desire to give more, she acknowledged the contributions of staff members who donated clothes after SnAPSA placed a donation box in the store. “There are people out there who do not have food or clothes. The fact that we are able to ensure that at least a single child, or woman, gets clothes to wear, means a lot. Those who donated, we know that at least one or two children will be able to get clothes.” She further expressed hope for future opportunities to contribute.
Gift Maila, Boxer’s assistant store manager, also emphasised their commitment to community support after their store donated food worth R600. “We pride ourselves in giving back to the community. Giving back is what we do.”
Although the needs of the shelter far exceed contributions made, Hlengwa expressed gratitude to the retailers on behalf of SnAPSA, noting that the donated items will be shared with Bombani’s residents during a special event to bring comfort and joy.
While the generosity of local retailers marks a step forward, and indicates a willingness to help; it also shines a light on the needs of shelters supporting vulnerable populations.
As communities and community safety stakeholders rally to address the GBV crisis, the call for continued support grows even more. “I wish more companies could contribute so that we can better the community,” Mashitwa shared.
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