Gqeberha Crisis Home Scores Big at SPAR Golf Day

SPAR Eastern Cape Bolsters Bet Sheekoom House of Restoration with Major Donation

A significant donation from SPAR Eastern Cape is set to expand the life-changing work of the Bet Sheekoom House of Restoration. The Gqeberha safe haven for women and children in crisis received R50,000 following the retailer’s well-supported annual charity golf day.

The event, held at the Port Elizabeth Golf Club, provides crucial funding for the non-profit. Bet Sheekoom has been a registered victim support centre since 2007, managed by Gary Koekemoer and his wife. The 16-bed facility in Southdene specializes in helping women heal from gender-based violence.

Restorative Programs Rebuild Lives

The organization’s restorative programs are a critical first step for victims. These initiatives help women secure employment and find independent housing. Recent success stories highlight two women who gained jobs with a florist in the wedding industry.

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The home’s in-house social worker has also facilitated the joyful reunification of children with their mothers. In another powerful outcome, a woman who lost an eye to an abusive partner saw justice served. Her former partner received a 15-year jail sentence, and a Good Samaritan helped her acquire a prosthetic eye.

“This has made a huge difference to her self-worth and confidence,” Koekemoer said.

Funding Injects Vital Support

The recent donation from the SPAR EC golf day will be directed into the general fund. It will address operational gaps, covering high-priority needs like medical bills and clothing for new arrivals.

“Being a non-profit, getting funding is a challenge, so an injection like this allows us to be more effective in everything we do,” Koekemoer explained. He added that such events also raise essential awareness for their cause.

The Bet Sheekoom House of Restoration provides everything for those who seek refuge, as nearly all arrive with nothing. This includes covering costs for essential psychological sessions. This ongoing support for the Bet Sheekoom mission empowers women and helps restore families.