The deputy speaker of the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Legislature Mmabatho Tembe has reaffirmed the KZN Legislature’s commitment to supporting vulnerable women and children during an outreach programme at two shelters in eThekwini recently.
As part of the Legislature’s ongoing community outreach and social responsibility initiatives, Tembe visited Sahara Shelter and Strollers Shelter, where she donated blankets and dignity packs to mothers and children in need. The initiative forms part of the Legislature’s commitment to ensuring that the needs of vulnerable communities remain at the centre of government programmes and interventions.
Both shelters provide essential care, protection and temporary accommodation to women and children from diverse backgrounds, despite operating with limited resources. They offer a safe haven to survivors of gender-based violence and domestic abuse, as well as women and children facing homelessness. Addressing residents at both facilities, Tembe acknowledged the critical role the shelters play in restoring hope and providing a place of safety for women and children during some of the most challenging periods of their lives.
She said that while donations alone cannot solve all the challenges faced by the shelters, they help to relieve some of the burden caused by limited resources and demonstrate government’s continued support for organisations serving vulnerable communities. Tembe also encouraged the women not to let their current circumstances define their future, reminding them that their past does not determine what lies ahead. She urged them to remain hopeful and embrace every opportunity to rebuild their lives with dignity, resilience and confidence.
She further commended the management and staff of both shelters for their dedication and selfless service in caring for some of society’s most vulnerable members.
