DSK Group launches telethon to establish a home for abandoned and abused children
Humanitarian work
Jane Pillay, front to back, Tivania Naranjee, Natasha Maharaj and Shanal Balkaran.
Image: Tumi Pakkies/Independent Newspapers
TO COMBAT the pervasive issue of child abandonment and abuse in KwaZulu-Natal, the DSK Group is stepping up its commitment to humanitarian efforts by launching its inaugural telethon.
Scheduled for November 19 from 9am to 4pm, this event will take place at The Imbizo Conference Centre within the Sibaya Casino and Entertainment World.
The telethon aims to raise funds to establish a home for abandoned and abused children.
The DSK Group's humanitarian work focuses on rescuing and supporting victims of abuse, providing relief and rehabilitation for those who have suffered trauma, including abuse, rape, abandonment, and neglect.
Through their efforts, the organisation has already impacted countless lives and seeks to expand this work with the establishment of a dedicated refuge for children.
"The telethon promises to be a powerful initiative, inviting community leaders, participants, and members of the public to join the cause. Participants are encouraged to reach out to a minimum of 10 personal or professional contacts to pledge funds during the event. All funds raised will be directed towards building the infrastructure necessary for the nurturing home. We believe that every child deserves a safe and loving environment to grow up in," said Jane Pillay, the Sibaya Community Trust Fund Manager. Pillay is also the brainchild behind the telethon.
She said the DSK Group's commitment to eradicating GBV did not stop here.
"This telethon is one piece of a larger vision to foster a society free from violence and abuse. As they embark on this journey, the DSK Group hopes to inspire others to lend their support and ensure that every child in KZN has a chance at a brighter future. Mark your calendars for November 19, and be part of this significant movement. Together, we can help create a sanctuary for our future generations, ensuring that no child is left behind in their time of need."
She said GBV incidents that DSK Group had dealt with this year had increased by 59%. On average, the group handled eight to 10 cases a month of minors who have been violated - be it rape, inappropriately touched, beaten or sold. They have also dealt with 85 teen pregnancy cases this year.
Pillay added that the Sibaya Community Trust Fund was at the forefront of humanitarian upliftment.
She said it was not always the case that there was enough funding to assist on every project.
"We try to help NPOs with fund-raising ideas and the DSK Group is one of the organisations I am personally assisting to put the telethon together. I have done this to help other NPOs such as Cheshire Homes and Child Welfare Durban and District. We work on projects from inception to completion to help empower NPOs."
The DSK Group is a non-profit organisation based in Phoenix. It assists with cases from various areas across the province, including Phoenix, Chatsworth, KwaDukuza, Tongaat, Richards Bay and areas south of Durban.
For more information, call 062 324 0686.