A handbag can speak volumes about the woman carrying it. But as with handbags, it is all too easy for women to lose their self-worth, self-confidence and even their self-love.
In an effort to give women back their identity, the Wilro Park Lions Club reintroduced their well-known Ladies Handbag Dignity Project. According to organisers Niqula Kruger and Sonja Eloff this project is aimed at assisting women and young girls who might have been victims of gender-based violence.
“I think that especially during and after lockdown, there has been a rise in gender-based violence incidents and rape cases. It quickly became something close to our hearts. We knew we wanted to give, especially to women and children who come from such circumstances,” Sonja explained.
She went on to say that these parcels are donated to various NGOs, which is made possible by the generous assistance of the community, churches, schools and local organisations.
Each handbag is filled with products such as water, shower gel, soap, cream, shampoo, face cloth, toothpaste and toothbrush, sanitary products and hair products. Each bag contains a card of encouragement for its new owner.
At the end of last year the Lions Club of Wilro Park managed to donate around 200 bags to organisations such as the Cradle of Hope in Krugersdorp, Women of Vision in Westbury, and the Roodepoort Police’s Victim Trauma Centre.
Since this is an ongoing project, the Lions Club appeals to the community for any donations such as new or pre-loved handbags as well as products to fill them with.
“Children did not ask to be here. I would do anything in my power to help children in dire circumstances. Women sometimes also find themselves in a difficult situation or circumstances and I, together with the Wilro Park Lions Club strive to give just a little hope or encouragement to those who need it,” Sonja concluded.
If you are interested in assisting with the project in any way, feel free to contact Sonja on 083 268 1397 or Niqula on 084 603 4187.
