‘Spooky’ fundraiser a success
The South African Women's Forte (SAWF) managed to raise R300 000 towards the revival of The KwaZulu-Natal Children's Hospital through their recent Halloween-themed fundraiser.
THE fundraising efforts of The South African Women’s Forte (SAWF) have garnered R300 000 towards the revival of The KwaZulu-Natal Children’s Hospital, which has been dilapidated for many decades.
The group of altruistic women organised a Halloween themed fundraiser at the Durban ICC in October. According to the SAWF president, Rita Abraham, the funds will be used to rebuild one of the rooms within the children’s day ward.
“Our ultimate goal is to raise R1-million to have the entire day ward rebuilt, refurbished and reopened. We saw such an amazing turnout at the Halloween themed event, with 450 people supporting the initiative. People also supported the spirit of the event and came all dressed up. We are planning a spring ball for next year to continue with the fundraising efforts,” added the Mount Edgecombe resident.
The sale of a collage of photos of late president, Nelson Mandela’s 95th birthday, donated to the event by photographer, Kevin Joseph, raised R160 000 on the night.
The hospital, formerly known as The Addington Children’s Hospital, was established in 1931 as a facility to cater to the medical needs of children from all races, however due to the apartheid pressure the hospital was shut down in the late 1980s and fell into disrepair. However, since 2010 the KZN Department of Health and the KZN Children’s Hospital Trust have been striving to renovate and refurbish the ruined and neglected building.
“Vandalism, thefts and vagrancy have taken their toll on the once beautiful building, leaving it in a dilapidated state. Almost all of the fittings in the buildings have been stolen or vandalised,” said La Lucia resident and the SAWF vice-president, Michelle Michael.
The construction and renovation of the hospital officially began in February 2012, and the first building was officially opened to patients in July 2013. However, to complete the renovations an additional R385-million is required.
The SAWF has made an appeal to companies and members of the public to pledge donations towards the renovation project. Contact Rita on 083 786 8355.
Related articles:
‘Help me save my little girl’s life’
Ethekwini Hospital broadens medical horizons
