THE Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm donated R254300, including a car, to the On Eagles Wings Multi-Purpose Centre in Pellsrus, Jeffreys Bay.
Founded by pastor Mercy Cwayi in 2005 who experienced a traumatic childhood, and supported by the Department of Social Development, the centre offers counselling, education and life skills to women and children experiencing domestic violence and rape. This is by no means a simple undertaking considering that the community lacks sufficient support structures and is plagued by drug and alcohol abuse.
“We are grateful to women like Cwayi who take care of the many vulnerable women and children in our communities. Their compassion and strength help lift up those who are in need of care,” says Marion Green-Thompson, Economic Development Manager for Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm.
“Our development programme aims to positively impact the communities in Jeffreys Bay, Humansdorp, Hankey and Patensie areas, with a particular focus on education and health.”
Cwayi says: “We now have extra “legs” to reach community members and offer support to domestic violence victims.”
According to her there are exciting plans in the pipeline for the centre. “We hope to establish satellite branches in Patensie, Thornhill and Blomplaas, as well as to enable our social worker and trauma counsellor to visit community members in those areas.
“We further dream of opening a house for young unwed pregnant mothers who have been cast off by their families – offering a safe place and caring environment, while teaching them valuable skills to become independent.”
According to Social Development District Manager Zandisile Tafeni, Government cannot deal with social ills on its own. “We have limited resources, and are therefore grateful to see companies like the Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm giving back to the community.”