The Salvation Army’s Carehaven – a refuge for victims of domestic violence – has had to close its charity shop after 20 years because of the rising cost of living.
Manager Maranda Lang said it was a sad day when they closed the Mowbray store, which had been a big source of income for
them.
She said the rent had risen by nearly 100% since 2014 and they had effectively been running at a loss for the past few years.
“We were paying R14 000 a month and had to pay our staff and electricity and other related costs. With today’s economic climate, we understand that people are struggling and donations and funds have not been coming in the way they used to.”
The money the shop had brought in had supported the place of safety for abused women and children, said Ms Lang.
According to assistant manager Linda Morley, Carehaven provides short-term housing to female victims of domestic abuse and their children. A three-month programme focuses on helping them heal and teaches them to cope with problems.
The home has been burgled several times in the past two months and is now trying to raise money to improve security.
The home gets some government funding but it’s not enough to cover all its costs of about R220 000 a month. Ms Lang thanked all their loyal customers and donors who helped the organisation over the years and said they were still collecting donations.
To help, contact Carehaven at 021 638 5511.
The location of the home has not been disclosed, for the safety of the women and children.