Haven of hope gets fitting revamp
THE Saartjie Baartman Centre for Women and Children has helped more than 190 000 women in its 18-year existence.
The non-governmental organisation, situated in Athlone, supports women who have experienced domestic and genderbased violence.
With its open-door policy, the centre is a safe haven for up to 120 women staying for a maximum of four months.
Director Shaheema McLeod said the centre offered trauma debriefing, counselling and skills training.
“We equip the women with a number of skills that will allow them to stand on their own feet once they’ve left. We also help them with Sassa and other legal issues.”
A 24-year-old woman who has been at the centre for the past three months is grateful to it for giving her another chance in life.
“This place was a great lifeline because I used to feel trapped as a substance abuser and being physically and emotionally abused as well,” she said.
With a background of family domestic abuse, she fell pregnant while addicted to substance abuse. A month after her daughter was born, she made the decision to leave her behind and sought help at the centre.
“I felt isolated and I didn’t know who to turn to. I had no idea that I could just rock up to the centre and be welcomed with open arms.”
After some time at the centre, her daughter was able to join her.
“I stopped feeling ashamed and I constantly thought about my daughter. There is so much support here and I get to learn from other moms as well,” she said.
As part of the #16DaysForYouth initiative, HeartFM upgraded the kitchen and, together with their sponsors, they donated 250 blankets, painted the rooms and even fed all the women and children.