WITH April being sexual assault awareness month, Bluff’s Hands of Hope, which deals with victims of sexual crimes, will host an awareness march on Saturday, 25 April.
Hands of Hope, or Izandla Zethemba, which has been operational since 2012, provides support to victims of rape, abuse, domestic violence, drugs and alcohol.
“We help with interdicts or peace orders, escort people to the police to report crimes, provide a place for them to turn when in need and help them reclaim a sense of dignity,” said founder Bernadette King.
The organisation also gives talks at schools on rape and bullying, supports community projects and organises a Christmas party for orphanages.
Hands of Hope will host a peaceful walk from Fynnland Sports Club, along Lighthouse and Tara Roads to the Dutch Club and back again, starting at 8.30am. The cost is R10 per person and everyone is urged to wear red lipstick in support of the Red my Lips campaign, which runs throughout April to raise awareness of sexual assault awareness month. A bring and braai will follow the walk.
The organisation needs sponsors for the event and donations of toiletries to give to people in desperate situations who leave home with nothing.
To buy tickets to the walk, assist with funds, donate toiletries, or find out more about Hands of Hope, call Bernadette on 048-888-8040 or 031-466-5998 or Dawn on 079-964-6735 or 031-467-9032.
