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GEORGE NEWS - After a rough 2024, the Phambili refuge for battered women and their children is again in financial dire straits. This time, their situation is critical and the centre will probably close its doors on 31 March.
Phambili is completely dependent on funding from the Western Cape Department of Social Development (DSD) as well as private donations from businesses and individuals. The department, that is by far the biggest donor, has informed the refuge that funds have dried up.
According to DSD spokesperson Monique Mortlock, funding for the centre was not withdrawn because of financial shortages in the department.
"The management board of the centre was informed of the reasons for ending the funding, which pertain to them not meeting certain standards. Efforts have been made over a long time to help them. The centre appealed the decision and the appeal was rejected," said Mortlock.
"It should be added that the department does not end funding for an organisation overnight; there is a process that was followed in accordance with legislation.
The department will always first try to help an organisation that experiences problems and usually develops a plan together with the organisation. This, however, requires their full cooperation."
VIDEO - Phambili Shelter a safety net for battered women
What says Phambili?
Phambili's directors sent the following comment on the matter: "The department informed the organisation at the beginning of Feb 2025 that it had been decided not to fund the organisation further, and that the organisation could make representations to the minister."
"A number of vague allegations and statements were made, without reference to any specific incidents, which the directors tried to answer as fully as possible.
"Among other things, allegations were made regarding the spending of funds, although the organisation achieved 98% in the handling and spending of DSD funds during the monitoring by DSD in August 2024.
"Nevertheless, the organisation received a letter from the minister's office confirming that the appeal was unsuccessful and funding would therefore not continue."
Current dilemma
Centre manager Esmarie Bruwer confirmed that 19 residents - women and children - are currently being accommodated on the premises.
"The cost of covering all expenses is about R150 000 per month. The refuge is not able to survive financially without funding from the Social Development Department or private entities. Unfortunately, as from 1 April we will not have these funds," said Bruwer.
"If we do not receive private financing, we will unfortunately have to close the doors of the shelter on 31 March."
Bruwer said alternative accommodation arrangements will be made for the residents at other shelters, if the women are not ready to return to the community.
The nearest shelters in the area are in Mossel Bay, Dysselsdorp, Albertinia and Heidelberg.
Phambili is a lifebuoy for women and children who escape from violence at home. The centre has for many years offered a safe haven, counselling and essential support to help the women heal and rebuild their lives. It's been in operation since April 1998.
Businesses and other organisations who want to help Phambili, may contact Bruwer on 072 875 5778 or 044 875 1551 or send an email to manager@phambilishelter.co.za.
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