Shelter offers refuge to abuse victims

THE Lazarus Home in Umbilo will be home to more than 100 women and children, all victims of abuse.

The former commercial building is owned by businessman and former chairperson of the now defunct Manning Rangers, Chico Lazarus, and will stand as a memorial to his parents. At the launch, the facility was blessed by Cardinal Napier along with Fathers Vitalis Loryue, Sylvester David and Sean Mullin.

At the official opening, Lazarus said the family decided donated the building to serve the community. Explaining, “following our meeting with the Archdiocese of Durban, Cardinal Wilfred Napier, they told me about the need for such a facility. There are 15 rooms in total, which will house eight people per room and in total the facility will house 120 to 130 people. The facility offers free short-term accommodation. Everything will be provided for the women and children from meals to clothing and medical care.”

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Ward 33 committee member, Pat D Masiase said, “we welcome this initiative by the Lazarus family as you are aware that there is serious plight of homelessness in our community. We are grateful to this family, there are very few business people who share their wealth with the communities.”

Makusha Hupenyu, the administrator of the shelter, added that to get these women on their feet and make the most of their resources they will have the opportunity to learn a skill allowing them to sustain themselves long-term.

Contact Hupenyu Makhusha, the Lazarus Home manager on 073 299 6045.

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