Charity shop gives back

The Windsor Community Charity Shop in Windsor East came out of a struggling period and now assists many community members who need help.

Patrick Khaoya, took over the charity shop in 2014 after a sponsor could not support it anymore. According to Khaoya, the shop was a mess, but after a previous Randburg Sun article many people donated items to be sold in the shop. “Readers came to our rescue, some still contact me to donate,” he said.

Khaoya said that he believes that people should not be spoon-fed. “People come in here, saying that they are hungry, but by simply giving it does not help anyone. It is like adding petrol to the fire. “He further explained that he wants to come up with ways to benefit the community, rather then just give food. Khaoya placed emphasis on the fact that being poor is a mindset. He explained that people need to market themselves to get a job and not give up. “It is not easy to have a business in this area, but this is the area where charity is needed.” According to him, people are scared to deal with crime and needy people in the area.

The Windsor Community Charity Shop has grown so much, that they are now able to run other charities to assist members of the community. Khaoya said that they will be starting a driving school on 1 February for people who cannot afford driving lessons. With profit made from the shop, Khaoya was able to buy a car and will help less-fortunate or homeless boys get their learner’s licences. Khaoya said that they will also start a gardening service to give jobs to people on the street. “We are just waiting to put a payment down on a bakkie.”

Khaoya lived on the street for three years till 2002, but he quickly decided that that life was not for him. “I changed my mindset and told myself that I am also important,” said Khaoya.

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Details: Patrick Khaoya, 084 258 6422.