Help fund completion of shelter
DESPITE numerous challenges and financial setbacks to complete her women's shelter and place of safety in Mzingazi, community worker Sharon Mdletshe has not lost her passion, drive or zeal to see this project through to completion.
Having registered her NPO Eagles Wings Shelter, she began the project seven years ago with faith and a piece of land on her property overlooking Lake Mzingazi.
For the pensioner, starting this project in her latter years is the legacy she wants to leave after working as a volunteer in her community for over three decades with SAPS, CPFs, various community groups and charities.
In December, the shelter's roof was completed and now Mdletshe needs support for the plastering, electrical and plumbing, painting, tiling, security and furnishings.
''It has been a long journey but we are on the final lap and believe that, with the support of local businesses and community members, this centre can soon be operational," said Mdletshe.
''Domestic violence and abuse are rife in our communities and we need this centre up and running to offer help, as well as to conduct awareness programmes to educate our communities on how to eradicate social ills."
Her goal is to incorporate income-generating projects such as beadwork, sewing and vegetable farming to help empower the unemployed in her community.
As a CPF representative and volunteer at the Richards Bay SAPS trauma room, she has first-hand experience of the violence affecting families, and the impact of unemployment and crime in the area.
Mdletshe said, while they are rallying donations for the shelter, other community projects are not neglected and there is still a great need for food parcels for destitute families.
''We started a project last year where locals contribute funds every month, and groceries are purchased for families, which is ongoing.''
Anyone willing to assist can contact Mdletshe on
083 8723384.