Centre for disabled children relocates to Discovery

The passing of Queen Butterfly Foundation founder Palesa Mofokeng in October left a large void in the lives of the many severely disabled children in her care, and would potentially cause the closure of the foundation to which she had dedicated her life.

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According to years-long friend and colleague Julie Botha, the committee of the Queen Butterfly Foundation was determined not to let this come to pass, and decided unanimously that their work is simply too important to let their beloved organisation go to ground.

“At our AGM, which took place shortly after Palesa’s passing, a decision was made to forge ahead,” she says.

Thus, Botha has now taken up the reigns as centre manager, vowing to continue their efforts and to provide a safe space where children with disabilities can thrive. To this end, the Queen Butterfly Foundation has relocated to a safer neighbourhood and now calls Discovery their home.

“Our new space is wonderful,” says Botha. “The house is a bit smaller than the old one in Roodepoort CBD, but then we don’t have to worry about the busy taxi rank and potential for our staff or visitors falling victim to crime. We also have a very accommodating landlord,” she adds.

“Our new space is quiet, and we feel safe here. We look forward to becoming immersed within the local community. We already feel welcomed.”

The centre currently looks after between 12 and 15 children with severe physical disabilities, who are either collected by the school bus or dropped off by their parents daily. They completed their relocation and officially started operating in their new premises in Trichard Street, Discovery, on February 1.

“We are still working on some minor upgrades,” says Botha. “It takes time and money. We are hoping to secure some paint for the interior rooms soon, and then we’ll try for matching curtains.

“We are also working on securing sponsorships for three local children whose families cannot afford for them to attend. These children are all former attendees who desperately need to be here, but simply cannot.”

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For more information, or to become a supporter of Queen Butterfly Foundation, contact Botha on 083 653 5655.