Mercy Haven reopens its doors
Mercy Haven offers emergency accommodation for abused women and children
Mercy Haven was officially reopened on September 20, during an intimate gathering to bless the house.
Wearing blue jeans and white T-shirts, the newly appointed Mercy Haven staff and board members were officially introduced to guests.
The reopening of the place follows the facility’s shutdown last year after the Gauteng Department of Social Development withdrew funding.
Mercy Haven, which operates under the auspices of the St Dominic’s Parish Church, provides basic needs such as nutrition, primary healthcare, clothing, education and development assistance, and where possible, reunited with their families.
Daryl Gabin, the new chairman, said: “Our strategy for this year is to create stability and credibility from all aspects.
“Because the centre was closed down for the year, we need to gain that confidence for potential investors and donors.
“Our team of caring, committed individuals will assist victims through holistic programmes to promote healing and empowerment and which will enable them to rebuild themselves and reclaim their lives.
“Upon admission of the mothers, women are counselled, educated and equipped with relevant life skills and guidance.
“They are also assisted in seeking employment and trained on how to maintain their economic growth independently.”
A budget of R150 000 was spent towards plumbing, electricity and the painting of the centre.
After the formal speeches, guests were taken on a tour around the house.
One of the board members, Vanessa Pillay, highlighted that the nine board members were chosen from the Catholic fraternity.
“The Mercy Haven constitution allows for the broader community of Boksburg to be actively involved. Interested individuals who would like to join the board may visit the centre’s website to find out more.”
According to Pillay, any ratepayer in Ekurhuleni may apply for public membership of the organisation.
“Members pay a once-off joining fee and annual membership fees. Public membership means that members in good standing may nominate candidates for the Board of Directors and thus participate actively in the good governance of the organisation,” said Pillay.
“As an institution that has been serving the community of Ekurhuleni and beyond since 2004 we believe that community ownership and responsibility is paramount to the organisation’s growth and sustainability, especially in a society where the need for such institutions is increasing with the growing incidents of domestic violence.
“Recent South African statistics show that one in five South African women has experienced physical violence.”
Enquiries about public membership may be sent to info@mercyhavenubuntuhouse.co.za
Anyone interested in contributing to the sustainability of Mercy Haven and its activities may email darylg@sevenstars.co.za or visit their website at www.mercyhavenubuntuhouse.co.za.
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