Let old handbags restore dignity
Do you have one or more handbags that you do not use? Here is your chance to make a difference in someone's life by donating them to the less fortunate.
LYDENBURG – In honour of his mother, resident Mr Kevin Ruthven has started the Gift from the Heart handbag project for women.
Do you have one or more handbags that you do not use? Here is your chance to make a difference in someone’s life by donating them to the less fortunate. Every handbag received will be filled with sanitary and similar products and will be donated to those in need.
Ruthven says his mother had three handbags, but only used one. “I never understood why she kept them but never used them.” With this project he wants to make women who are struggling to afford basic needs, feel special during the festive season.
However, he needs the community’s support to achieve this. “We are asking for handbags that you do not use, hand lotion, make-up, combs, perfume, sunscreen or anything else that a woman will need in her bag.”
According to him, the thought of the handbags that his mother never used was what led to the project. “So often I have seen women carrying their belongings in a plastic bag because they do not have a handbag.
“I once visited an elderly woman in hospital and when I asked her what she would like me to bring her the next day, she asked for hand lotion, because she could not afford it. This made me realise how much some people are struggling to make ends meet.
“We do not accept money, we only take handbags and womanly products. We are asking this as an opportunity to bless someone through a gift of love,” he said.
If you want to be part of this project, whether it is through donating or providing your assistance, call Ruthven on
076-737-3910. You can also drop handbags and products at ERA Real Estate at Viljoen Street. Ask for Susan (during office hours) or drop them at 51 Brown Street (after hours and weekends).
