Comfort bags needed for local victims of domestic violence
TO continue supporting crises centres and Victim Empowerment Programme sites in King Cetshwayo, Zululand and uMkhanyakude Distrists, Lifeline Zululand is seeking donations for its comfort pack drive which provides 'care essentials' to victims of gender-based violence.
They have called on local businesses, corporates, sponsors, community lead initiators and donors to pledge contributions of bath soap, antiperspirant roll-on, toothpaste, toothbrushes, body lotion, sanitary pads, face towels, underwear, drawstring bags or toiletry backpacks and soft toys.
Lifeline Zululand Michelle Jewlal said this is an ongoing project and they would like to compile at least 500 bags.
'Lifeline Zululand has been servicing the northern KZN community since 1987 and has expanded over the years, supporting the Thuthuzela Care Centre in Ngwelezana, Victim Empowerment sites, crisis centres and the white door centre which temporarily accommodates and provides abused women protection against secondary abuse.
'There are sites based at SAPS victim friendly rooms in KwaMsane, Mtubatuba, Hlabisa, Ezibayeni, Hluhluwe, Mkhuze, Jozini, Ingwavuma, Ndumo, Mbazwane and Manguzi and the crisis centres at the hospitals mainly focus on rape and sexual offence cases.
'The comfort packs initiative supports our organisation at 40 sites which include the crisis centres, white doors and Thuthuzula Care Centre where victims of abuse and sexual assault receive these hygiene essentials after their traumatic ordeal.
'The packs are age and gender appropriate and include basic necessities such as underwear and toiletries and for the younger victims a soft toy is added to soothe and comfort the children,' said Jewlal.
If you would like to make a contribution or support the project
contact 035-7892472 or email director.llzul@telkomsa.net