Durban’s Addington Hospital Crisis Clinic wing has received much-needed renovation to assist victims of gender-based violence (GBV).
This month, a local Non-Profit Company (NPC), called Cares KZN, initiated the Beauty for Ashes project at the hospital. Beginning with one room, Cares KZN mustered up support from corporates and volunteers to renovate the crisis clinic wing.
Cares KZN chairperson Alison Schroder said volunteers replaced window panes, fixed electrical points, painted the rooms, decorated and stocked the spaces with furniture, rugs, toys, bedding and more. It took three weeks to revamp some of the rooms.
“It has been mind-blowing to see how people have given of their time to make this project happen. Others have used their skills while a few corporations made donations,” Schroder said.
It was horrific to see the state of the facilities where victims would go after their trauma, she said. With this in mind, Cares KZN launched Beauty for Ashes nationally in February.
“Gender-based violence has been classed a pandemic nationally. Cares KZN has decided to make a difference in the lives of women and children. The aim of the project is to educate women on protection, rights, reporting and dealing with rape, and referrals to psychologists and social workers.”
Schroder said Cares KZN has handed out more than 400 dignity packs, called Care Crates, so far for victims of GBV and rape and has referred over 20 women for professional help.
“Addington Hospital is in a dire state and we believe that through creating a tranquil and beautiful environment for women and child victims, that we can bring hope and healing.
“Maintenance supplies are nil at the hospital so we sourced window panes, handles, electrical sockets and plates; furniture, carpets, bedding, curtains and various decorative items.”
Schroder said Phase 1 had transformed the kids’ room and women’s waiting and overnight room.
Project manager Ashish Saniparsad said anyone could play a role in helping others, and that when you gather a nation, that nation has the potential to change the world. On Saturday, Cares KZN visited Westville Correctional Centre to speak to 100 women, many of whom are victims of rape and GBV, to give out basic toiletries. Cares KZN’s next project is the crèche in the Siyanda community in Inanda.
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Daily News