Giving back to the community in which it operates, Sibaya Casino has committed to invest R10-million towards programmes aimed at fighting Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and femicide.
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Sahara Shelter, Wentworth Victim Friendly Centre, Amanzimtoti Trauma Centre, Aryan Benevolent Home VJ Kara Safehouse, Open-Door Crisis Care Centre, in Phoenix , Wentworth, Pinetown, Amanzimtoti and Chatsworth were some of the beneficiaries that received support from Sibaya in the form of purchases to upgrade facilities and funding towards empowerment and skills development programmes for survivors that are based at these shelters.
“A needs analysis was done for each centre to establish what their requirements were, and donations included computers, fridges, linen, blinds and aircons for the various facilities.
Each shelter has their own initiatives which the monetary donation will help fund, including skills development such as knitting, sewing, crochet, computer skills and flower arranging. Outreach programmes include a men’s support groups that build up men as agents of change and other programmes which raise awareness about GBV prevention. Open Door also runs counselling and group therapy sessions to assist in dealing with the trauma and promote healing, where survivors can share in a safe and supportive environment.
“These NGOs operate under financial constraints and despite this, do a very necessary and excellent job supporting gender-based violence survivors, serving as a lifeline to many. We hope this donation will help them continue their work, and we call on the business community and the media to come on board to fight GBV,” Gobrie said.
Front row: Nadia Munsamy, Manager of Sahara Shelter; Aroona Chetty, Director of Phoenix Child Welfare; Brenda Hamraj, Housemother at Sahara pictured with Virath Gobrie; General Manager of Sibaya Casino; and Ashwin Ramroop, Social Worker
Back row: Yasmin Nagan, Housemother at Sahara; Sharm Maharaj, President for Phoenix Child Welfare; Chantal Maharaj, Administrator Phoenix Child Welfare; Clarissa Naidoo and Mpume Maduna from the KZN Gaming and Betting Board
“We need to create more awareness as GBV is everyone’s business and not something to be ignored,” said Sharm Maharaj, President of Phoenix Child Welfare. “We all know someone who has been affected and it is time to take action – whether calling the police or helping with guidance and support.”
Image Courtesy: Supplied