MOTHER of Peace-Illovo appeals to businesses and community members for monetary donations towards purchasing a new jungle gym for the children to play on.
The non-profit organisation, which turned 20 this year, is a children’s home that depends on the generosity of the community and beyond to maintain a safe, nourishing and happy environment for over 50 children of all ages. These are children who have been abandoned, orphaned and abused.
ALSO READ: Non-profit appeals for assistance for Umgababa family
Director of the home Gavin Gradwell said despite the home’s many needs, the needs of the children come first.
“Our children love to play and run around. They have boundless energy. The jungle gyms, which had slides, swings and a climbing net, were a much-loved play area for the children for over 10 years. Unfortunately, over time, both have become dilapidated and too dangerous for the children to play on. We don’t have the spare resources to fix or buy a new jungle gym and appeal to businesses and community members for assistance,” said Gradwell.
He said he reached out to a community service organisation, however, they said the structures are in a state of disrepair and need to be replaced. Gradwell has since received quotes from a company for new equipment, excluding installation. Prices range from R5 330 to R19 140, depending on additions to the structure.
Gradwell said, “The children have been playing with skipping ropes and balls and would be so excited to enjoy the playground again. We are a registered NPO and can provide Section 18 tax exemption certificates for all qualifying donations.”
ALSO READ: Going away? Board your pets at Amanzimtoti SPCA
The home, in its ongoing pursuit of being self-sufficient, boasts home-grown fruit and vegetables, chickens and a bakery, which is in the works of being functional again, among other projects.
“Our goal is to provide for ourselves and to eventually sell our produce to the community to generate an income. We also try to involve the children, to teach them valuable life skills. Although we do have regular sponsorship, it is not enough to cover costs. Our biggest expense is fuel to transport the children to and from school,” said Gradwell.
In an effort to raise much-needed funds for the home, fundraiser Norma Shore sets up a boerewors stand at the entrance to Kingsburgh Centre every Saturday from 07:00 to 14:00. The stand is also a drop-off point for donations of money, food, household cleaning products and so forth.
For more information, contact Gavin Gradwell on 082 200 9614 or at gavin@motherofpeace.org.za
DID YOU KNOW?
Click on the words highlighted in red to read more on this and related topics. To receive news links via WhatsApp or Telegram, send an invite to 061 694 6047.
Do you have more information pertaining to this story? Feel free to let us know by commenting on our Facebook page or you can contact our newsroom at 031 903 2341 and speak to a journalist.
(Comments posted on this issue may be used for publication in the Sun)
