The past two years have not been easy for anyone as the raging pandemic has had some devastating consequences.
While many businesses and organisations were forced to shut their doors, one NGO the community has come to know and love managed to withstand the destructive blows that came with Covid-19.
Located in Wilro Park the Queen Butterfly Foundation is a stimulation centre that caters for children and young adults with profound physical and mental disabilities. This non-profit organisation was started by a passionate young woman named Palesa Mofokeng approximately seven years ago, and it’s still going strong.
“Since we rely mostly on the goodwill of the community, we have faced countless challenges over the past two years. And while it wasn’t easy, we still saw miracles happen, which is why our doors are still open today,” she said.
Palesa stressed the fact that she regarded the Queen Butterfly Foundation as one of the luckiest NGOs as the Roodepoort community has received it with open arms.
This dedicated activist has always considered herself a big dreamer, and has remained adamant to do what she loves and add value to her community. Although at times she felt like throwing in the towel, Palesa reminded herself of the lives she’s touched in the past as well as the lives yet to be touched in the future.
“I have chosen to serve, no matter what life throws at me. I have chosen to look after disabled children many years ago as I strongly believe that it’s my calling. I want to bring out this passion to looking after these children in other people too,” she said.
“It gets tough, but there are so many moments that make you realise it’s worth fighting for. I believe we are a strong and resilient nation and we all need each other to become better. We’ve made it through some tough times together and I believe we have the potential to make it through so much more.”
According to Palesa, they don’t have their own premises for the centre as they are still using of the Wilro Park Baptist Church premises. She dreams of having her own centre where she and her team of caregivers can take care of the children.
She remains thankful towards the church, caregivers, parents and other businesses who have been supporting the foundation in so many ways over the years.
“We wouldn’t have made it without the love and support of these kind-hearted souls. These children truly deserve the best, and when we receive support, the little ones benefit from it. From the bottom of our hearts we thank everyone who kept believing in us through all this time,” she concluded.
If you would like to support the foundation or find out more, contact Palesa on 081 795 7531 or send an email to info@queenbutterfly.org.za.
