Jes Foord Handbag Project

Sibaya Casino rallies to support Jes Foord Handbag Project

Sibaya Casino & Entertainment Kingdom has heeded the plea for help from the Jes Foord Foundation. “We called on our employees to donate handbags that they are no longer using for this extremely worthy cause. The response from our teams is a demonstration of the values of Sun Sibaya and we have collected over 30 handbags and toiletries from the ladies and gentlemen of Sibaya,” says Chantel Jhilmeet, Human Resources Manager at Sibaya.

When Jes was raped in 2008, just like anyone else she had to make her statement, attend a doctor for physical examination and evidence collection etc. After those gruelling hours of having to remain in her dirty clothes without a shower she was gifted a similar pack of items from a local pharmacy, Jes was so grateful. How much more so are our rape survivors who at their rural homes use the same bar of soap for their bodies, dishes and clothes. “Receiving this JFF comfort bag is the start of their journey from victim to survivor. Our bag numbers had dwindled and we reached out to Sibaya.”

Every handbag is the beginning of a survivor’s new life after their ordeal and is so worth the effort. Donors can place the items in the handbags if they are in a position to. Alternatively, the Foundation will pack the necessary items.

For children, the Foundation packs a Kiddi pack, which is sadly in high demand. The Foundation’s cost to pack these bags amounts to R170 per bag – so individuals and companies are also welcome to donate a monetary amount so that the Foundation can purchase the bags and items.

Thuthuzela Centres and Childline houses across KwaZulu-Natal depend on the Jes Foord Foundation to supply these rape comfort bags as an important part in aiding the survivors’ first steps towards recovery. Anyone who wants to be of support can contact the team at 086 133 3449 | www.jff.org.za | and speak to Trish Gillespie

For more information on the project, visit http://www.jff.org.za/the-handbag-project-2/

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