Help needed! Kasi disability project faces closure

THE Tshwane Disability Empowerment Projects in Stinkwater, Hammanskraal, Tshwane is a vital organisation providing essential services to people living with disabilities.

However, it's now on the brink of closure due to severe financial constraints.

Founded in September 2023, the project has made significant progress in empowering people with disabilities, but a lack of funding and resources threatens to undo its remarkable achievements.

Thapelo Tshabalala, the founder of the project and a researcher on persons with disabilities, said they need urgent support.

"We've made tremendous progress, but without immediate financial assistance, we risk closing our doors, leaving 260 people with disabilities without access to vital services," said Thapelo.

He said the project officially launched on 27 October 2023, with the help of Blind SA, the Department of Labour, community members, and local business owners. The centre provided various programmes, including sewing, agriculture, decoration, catering, health and wellness, computer skills, and arts and culture.

"These initiatives benefited 26 daily attendees; however, many others were unable to participate due to transport limitations," said Thapelo.

The project's achievements include recognition as a Social Founder of the Year in Africa Awards and media appearances on Metro FM and Moretele Community Radio Station. Despite its impact, the project struggles to stay afloat.

In a dire warning, the landlord's daughter, Lerato Koka, allegedly threatened to sell the project's working equipment if they don't receive assistance by the end of the business day on Monday, 10 February.

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Lerato, representing her mum and the landlord, expressed her frustration.

"I'm not taking any calls or attending meetings. You've overstayed your welcome. Since you're not paying, please come collect your belongings tomorrow," she said.

Daily Sun approached her, and she said no rent has been pain since they occupied the space.

"This is frustrating. I represent my mother, so don't ask me to explain. If they don't pay, I'll sell their belongings. I don't have time for this," she said.

This situation would not only cripple the project's operations but also undermine the progress made in empowering people with disabilities.

"We're appealing to the public, corporate organisations, and government institutions to help us secure funding to prevent the closure of our facility and the loss of our equipment," Tshabalala pleads.

"Every donation, no matter how small, counts, and will enable us to continue providing essential services to those who need it most," said Thapelo.

The project requires R2 500 per month to cover rent and operational costs. Any assistance, whether financial or in-kind, will be gratefully accepted.