Deputy minister unveils revamped Newcastle crisis centre

Bogopane-Zulu has already visited the crisis center as part of her duties as the Amajuba district champion, where she promised centre manager Mary Dobbie that she would assist in any way she could.

She approached the Vodacom Foundation, which partnered with the Department of Social Development to renovate the crisis center and give it more “homley” feel.

In attendance were representatives from Vodacom, Pick n Pay, ITEC and TTC Chemicals, members from religious organisations, all who have supported  and continue to support the centre that serves as a lifeline to many.

During the tour, the deputy minister noticed new floor tiles, a new office for the social worker, upgraded restrooms, and improved landscaping, all thanks to the Vodacom foundation.

Crisis centre manager Mary Dobbie was overcome with emotion as she thanked her dedicated team and everyone in attendance. “It’s been a long journey. It has been hard work, it has been sad and it has been happy,” she exclaimed.

Pick N PAY Feed the Nation surprised Mary by donating an R5000 voucher and a year’s supply of sanitary towels to the center.

Bogopane-Zulu thanked the Vodacom foundation, a long-standing partner with Department of Social Development for coming on-board before concluding by addressing South African men saying, “To men, if you keep quiet, you are part of the problem.”

The Department of Social Development gender based violence command centre,  is open 24/7on 0800 428 428 or *120*7867#.

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