THE Amanzimtoti Child and Family Welfare Society (ACFWS), a non-profit organisation dedicated to providing social work services to vulnerable children and families, calls on the community to support its work through donations and by supporting its thrift shop.

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ACFWS is situated at 2 Lewis Drive and Khotho Mkhunya Road, Amanzimtoti. Manager, Hlengiwe Lushaba, said that the NPO relies on donations and proceeds from its thrift shop, which is crucial for generating alternative income.

“Our shop is in urgent need of material donations, from clothing to household items, odds and ends. The shop is open from Monday to Friday from 08:00 until 15:00 and welcomes any donations and support,” said Lushaba.

She explained that ACFWS has, for the past 77 years, provided vital services to children, youth and families in Amanzimtoti and surrounds. It is a designated child protection agency and its core function is the care and protection of orphans and vulnerable children.

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“The organisation aims to ensure a physically, mentally and psychologically healthy functioning community with inbuilt care giving mechanisms through empowerment of each individual to care for themselves, becoming self-reliant and sustainable through development and life skills programmes. The Society also provides a home for homeless children by placing them in alternative care placements, and provides clothing and food to the needy,” said Lushaba.

She added that ACFWS carries out its work through a range of developmental programmes, including food relief, poverty alleviation, income generation, skills development and various community development initiatives, and through working closely with government departments, community partners, and stakeholders.

“To continue the vital role in helping children and foster-care parents, the society needs the public’s support in various forms, including financial contributions to fund ongoing programmes and services, donations of essential supplies including food, clothing, and educational materials, volunteering time and expertise, corporate partnerships and sponsorships. Every contribution, regardless of size, makes a meaningful difference in the lives of children who deserve safety, care, and opportunities to thrive,” said Lushaba.

For more information, contact 031 285 0568, email totichildwelfare@gmail.com. Alternatively, contact committee member, Lawrence Vartharajulu on 084 800 1941.

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