Charity drive caters for both genders

Gender-based violence projects usually cater to female victims, but Free World Initiative NPO decided to cater for both genders on Heritage Day, 24 September.

The Alberton and Pretoria representatives of this organisation visited Zandspruit to host the charity drive in aid of the victims.

The Tubatse GK Group car wash in the area, owned by businessman Katlego Mampuru, was the central point for the collection of toiletries and support.

Tahirah Jegels from the organisation, also a first-time visitor to Zandspruit, explained how she got to identify this community. “I had a word with Mampuru, also known as Fresh. I spoke to him about the charity drive we wished to host. Fresh cited that people in this area go through a lot of abuse, but most are scared to come out due to the lack of proper facilities,” she explained.

Generous residents in the area bought toiletries and helped fill up the basket.

Since the area has no shelter, the NPO identified Emthonjeni Community Centre as the recipients of the donations, and they will oversee the distribution of the donations.

Tahirah added that they also hosted this event with the hope to raise awareness and encourage both male and female victims to come forward.

“It’s a sad reality of what’s happening in this community, and it isn’t okay. We need to recognise men coming forward now because they also go through abuse, and unfortunately there is no voice for them,” she lamented.

Tahirah concluded by inviting residents to join their Free World Initiative Facebook page where they host a programme called Free Talk every Wednesdays at 11am. The programme invites profound speakers and survivors to share their experiences on GBV with the hope of empowering and healing others.