In a heartwarming gesture of compassion and support, N1 City Shopping Mall hosted a special drive during May. This event was dedicated to mothers affected by gender-based violence. N1 City Mall hosted a deeply moving handover ceremony on Sunday 21 June. It was led by N1 City’s Marketing Manager, Tamsyn Roman, and her colleague Lisa van Heerden.
As part of the mall’s ongoing mission to uplift and empower vulnerable women across communities, organisers selected 60 women. These women were identified as survivors or current victims of abuse to receive thoughtfully-curated gift bags. Many of the recipients are Sassa-grant beneficiaries. This includes elderly women who often do not have access to their bank cards, making everyday essentials a luxury.
“Abuse today isn’t just limited to partners,” said Telicia Erasmus, chair of Grace Outreach.
“We’re increasingly seeing cases where children and even grandchildren, many battling drug addiction, become the abusers. It was important for us to show these women that they are seen, valued and not alone.”
Volunteers filled each gift bag with essential toiletries. Each also contained a coffee voucher and sweet treats sponsored by Rockstar, one of the mall’s tenants. The atmosphere was emotional yet uplifting. Van Heerden offered words of encouragement. Several women stood up and courageously shared their stories. Some spoke about overcoming abuse, and others are still in the thick of it.
Roman thanked the day’s sponsors and partners.
ALSO READ: N1 City Mall joins drive to help GBV survivors in Goodwood
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