Grant funding of R1,5 million has been disbursed to five community-based civil society organisations (CSO) based in @Lejweleputswa.
The aim of the CSO is to provide Victim Empowerment Programme (VEP) services to victims of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) in the district.
The organisations set to receive the funding are the Guardian Angels Drop-in Centre and Lifeline Free State in Welkom, the Hennenman VEP Forum, the Tshireletsong Odendaalsrus VEP Support Group and the Theunissen VEP Organisation.
Each of the organisations received R300 000 from the National Development Agency (NDA).
This funding was in response to government’s call to reduce cases of violence and to offer support to those already affected by GBVF in the surrounding areas.
Many cases occur in informal settlements, where there is a high prevalence of substance abuse, unemployment and poor living conditions. These incidents peak on weekends and paydays, especially during social grants paydays.
The VEP and CSO work closely with the police, with some even based inside police stations. This ensures immediate access to care, support and protection.
