Ballito Comrades for a Cause

The Comrades Marathon was founded in 1921 for families torn apart by the cruelty of the largest war ever experienced (WW1 where more than 10 million lives were lost in just four years). In 2016, six Ballito residents will be taking to the tarmac for a war of terror that reigns in our province every day.

Durbanite Jes Foord became a heroine to many South Africans when she showed courage and selflessness by establishing The Jes Foord Foundation (JFF), following her traumatic rape by four men in 2008.

Sarah Swainson, a Ballito business entrepreneur first came across the Jes Foord Foundation about a year ago. She heard about what they do, and in particular the hand bag project, which helps women and children affected by sexual assault. Included in the Kiddi packs is a soft toy, which helps with the healing process and often becomes a symbol of hope for a child victim.

This year we are each running Comrades for the victims affected by sexual assault. Every step we take, every hill we climb during our Comrades 2016 run will be run to help these victims. Stand together with us and help us raise as many handbags as possible

George (Sarah’s dog) then did a Facebook campaign (Yes, George has a Facebook page, doesn’t every dog?).  He would donate a teddy to the Kiddi packs for every like his post received. George ended up donating over 50 teddies last year. George and Sarah arrived at the Jes Foord Foundation with teddies in tow. The lady working there may have thought Swainson mad as she announced that her labrador had collected teddies and wanted to donate them!

George, the large black labradror relaxes with Sarah Swainson after a successful fundraising initiative for teddies.

“The reality of sexual assault in our country, as reported by SAPS is 59 957 for the past year, making it 164 reported per day and for us this is not the real figure as at least 4 times this a day is happening but just not reported.  KZN is one of the provinces with the highest reporting” Jes told her…

The Handbag Project uses new or used handbags that are donated, and contains items that can assist a rape victim during the initial reporting process at the police station. These are things such as a facecloth, soap, deodorant spray, new underwear, etc. Typically, any item of clothing with forensic evidence on it must be taken from the rape victim, at a time she already feels so vulnerable. She then must undergo physical examination before being allowed to shower. A handbag with ‘comfort’ items in it can go a long way in helping the victim feel a little better. The most important item in the bag however, is a letter with a few words of encouragement to restore some hope to the victim during this traumatic time. Jes said it can be a few words or an essay but something from your heart to theirs i.e.

“No matter what has happened you are special, and please don’t let anyone take that away from you. You can, and will, get through this. There are so many people who really care and will help you gain your strength. This gift is given to you with love from Louise”.

When you are at your lowest, just receiving the bag with all the goodies, a simple gift that can give you hope which is a fundamental step in recovery.

It became very clear how valuable and life changing the handbag project is.

A hand bag cost approximately R150/ £6 (the cost of a fully packed bag) and we thought that this is a measurable and tangible way to make a difference. This year the JFF aims to distribute 4000 bags and we want to raise as many “bags” (R150) as possible.

Please join us as we aim to raise money towards the Hand Bag Project. One bag can change a life at time when it is most needed.

“This year we are each running Comrades for the victims affected by sexual assault. Every step we take, every hill we climb during our Comrades 2016 run will be run to help these victims. Stand together with us and help us raise as many handbags as possible.” said Swainson.

How can you help?

Any amount is really appreciated and you can donate using the reference: Dolphins

JFF banking details are:-

The Jes Foord Foundation

Nedbank Hillcrest Branch

Branch Code: 133826

Account No: 2338070488

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