Avon gives R1.4m to 5 anti-GBV lobby groups
FIVE NGOs working to combat domestic and gender-based violence are among several organisations which will receive funds from a R1.4million donation.
The initiative is part of Avon Justine’s global campaign, themed “You are isolated but not alone”.
The Avon Foundation has pledged to fund organisations on the front lines during the lockdown.
Avon Africa’s managing director, Mafahle Mareletse, said an increase in domestic violence was one of the unfortunate consequences of the lockdown.
“As a company for women, we wish to reaffirm our commitment to the fight against gender-based violence.
“With this financial commitment, Avon is reasserting their commitment to work with like-minded partners to free women and girls from the clutches of misogyny and toxic masculinity,” she said.
The Saartjie Baartman Centre for Women and Children, People Opposing Women Abuse, Tears, Ilitha Labantu and Lawyers Against Abuse will benefit from Avon’s financial assistance.
Ilitha Labantu’s Siyabulela Monakali said: “The support we receive goes towards education, empowerment and providing immediate support to women, children and families who are affected by domestic violence and abuse.
“It becomes even more important now to provide these essential services because of the current Covid-19 crisis we are facing in which many families are stressed and anxious.
“But we still maintain that, irrespective of the national lockdown, there is no excuse for abuse.”
Bernadine Bachar, director at the Saartjie Baartman Centre, said increased expenses, coupled with its inability to run fund-raising initiatives like golf days and entertainment events placed shelters in a precarious financial position.
“We are extremely grateful for their continued support during these uncertain times. This donation will allow us to continue to offer holistic empowerment services to the 90 women and children who are residents in our shelter during the lockdown, as well as the many in the community who we counsel,” Bachar said.