The Lutheran Communion in Southern Africa (LUCSA) together with Women in Church and Society (WICAS) donated care packs to the South African Police Service (SAPS) Victim Empowerment Center in Hillbrow, Johannesburg. The center for victims of Gender Based Violence (GBV) is open 24 hours a day and 7 days a week.

SAPS Captain Nthabiseng Magowa responded, “The center was established for victims of GBV to feel safe and welcome, so that when a person does not feel comfortable sharing their story at the front desk of the police station the center is there for them.” The center consists of well-trained volunteers and a member of the counseling service, Lifeline. “The center is housed inside the police station and is child friendly as well,” Captain Magowa added.

On behalf of the SAPS Hillbrow police station and the Victim Empowerment Center, Colonel Marite thanked the LUCSA Executive Director Rev. Lilana Kasper and the Communion at large for the donation. “These care packs will most definitely help victims feel more at home because those who come feel especially vulnerable having had their dignity taken away from them. We thank the Communion. May they continue with their good work.”

Anyone who would like to donate care packs, clothing or lend a helping hand to the SAPS Hillbrow Victim Empowerment Center can contact Captain Nthabiseng Magowa at +27 76 495 9291.

From left to right: LUCSA Diakonia Rev. Dr Othusitse Morekwa, Captain Nthabiseng Magowa, Brigadier Stanley Nevhuhulwi, LUCSA Executive Director Lilana Kasper and the victim empowerment volunteers.