Sahara Shelter expansion accommodates more women

Kudzai Mqingwana, Afrisun KZN Trust CSI Manager; Shakila Kooblal, Deputy Chair Phoenix Family and Child Welfare; Vivian Reddy, Chairman Sibaya Casino; Sharm Maharaj, Chairman Phoenix Family and Child Welfare

The expansion project - made possible with an investment of R1.3-million from the Trust and R500,000 raised by the centre though its own fund raising initiatives - means that the centre can now double the number of people it can accommodate to 24.

The new section, which includes six bedrooms and therapy and office facilities, was officially opened aptly on National Women's Day, Saturday, 9 August 2014.

Vivian Reddy, Chairman of Sibaya Casino and Trustee of the Afrisun KZN Trust, says, "Sadly, domestic violence is an escalating phenomenon in South Africa, with thousands of women subjected to horrible acts of violence on a daily basis.

"Many of these victims are disempowered by partners who alienate them from their families and other people, and most of them are not employed.

"The Sahara Shelter helps victims to take that brave step to remove themselves from these debilitating situations and start rebuilding their lives. Aside from providing essential shelter and food for themselves and their children, the Sahara Shelter also works to empower residents with information, and provides counselling and training programmes to assist them in developing skills that could help them find work.

"The Afrisun KZN Community Trust is pleased to assist the Sahara Shelter in extending its facilities and much-needed services to more women and children who have suffered abuse."

Shakila Kooblal, Deputy Chair of the Sahara Shelter, adds: "The investment made through Vivian Reddy's commitment means a great deal to the women who will reside in the shelter as well as the board and staff of Phoenix Child Welfare."