Lockdown restrictions continue to be a painful thorn in the side of the financially struggling KwaDukuza Child Welfare, as they still cannot host fundraising events.

The most recent blow was the postponement of their Golf Day which was to take place at Darnall Country Club last Saturday.

This event was to act as a substitute to the annual winter fair that used to generate about R900 000, but they have not been able to host it or other fundraisers for the last 2 years.

Senior social work manager, Karnegie Govender said after the country was moved back to level 3 last Tuesday, they decided to put their plans on hold.

“While we understand that many may have planned and been looking forward to the event, the safety factor is of utmost importance.

As soon as level 3 is relaxed and the situation permits, we will reschedule the golf day,” said Govender.

The fair’s profits were used to cover operational costs.

To try make up the loss, Govender said they had opened a thrift store at their offices, where they sell everything from clothes and furniture to household goods.

“We rely on the public to donate items that we sell at the store,” she said.

While they do receive a subsidy from the social development department it only covered their salaries.

All other expenses have to be paid by the staff, hence the urgent and important need to come up with fundraising initiatives.

“We are struggling. If this continues, honestly I do not know how we are going to survive. Remember we worked through the lockdown as our services are essential. To be able to provide that service, we need petrol for our vehicles, we need to have working phone lines and electricity. It’s been a struggle. We have had to restructure our budget to meet expenses.”

The number of children depending on the welfare fluctuates, with an average of 1 500 a month.

“We planned to have flea markets monthly, but this has also been put on hold due to the increase in numbers of positive cases.

We will be hosting a car show as well.

There are other ideas we have but if the numbers remain high, then we will be unable to move forward with the plans.”

To donate to the thrift store contact Govender at 032 5512129 or visit them on the corner of Cato and Jacaranda streets in KwaDukuza.