The Enduduzweni Community Care Centre in Melville has been forced to temporarily close after a break-in on Saturday.

The centre supports about 100 children daily, depending on the centre’s available food stocks, in the township outside KwaDukuza town.

Social worker and project manager, Mondli Ngema, said criminals entered through the ceiling and a bathroom window, and apart from stealing all the food stock, also damaged the security room in which laptops and security cameras were kept.

“With all the food taken, we can no longer feed the children and the place was turned upside down. It won’t be safe to bring children here,” said Ngema.

He said food, electric appliances and their internet router used to help children with schoolwork were among the items stolen.

“Besides the children we feed, many depend on us for extra lessons to help with schoolwork. We currently assist 30 grade 11 and 12 children.

“The Grade 12s have began their trial exams and internet access is crucial for them. But all that is gone now,” said Ngema.

He said the centre also offers programmes to uplift the community, such as baking classes, and obtaining learners and driving licenses, but that too had to be halted.

“It is not the first time. Almost a year ago thieves broke in, hence the installation of security cameras which were destroyed or stolen at the weekend,” said Ngema.

To help Nduduzweni Community Care Centre get back on its feet, can contact Ngema at 081 725 8732 or 078 623 0329.

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