PHOLA – The Innocent Victim Centre was founded by Sibongile Jele in 2021 after she witnessed a heartbreaking case of child abuse. This took place shortly after the Covid-19 pandemic. The non-profit organisation, based in Phola under the eMalahleni Local Municipality, was born out of a desperate need to support vulnerable children.
Sibongile observed that after the pandemic, many parents had lost their jobs and could no longer afford aftercare services for their children. As a result, many children came from abusive households, with some parents struggling with alcohol and substance addiction.
“Parents wake up in the morning and leave to feed their addiction, not knowing where their children are or whether they had breakfast before going to school,” said Jele. “These children often only eat once at school and have no one to assist them with homework.”
The trauma these children experience affects their learning abilities. “Some become slow learners, and when asked to write, they cry,” she added.
The centre’s mission is to create a nurturing environment where children are free from abuse, can learn, and break the cycle of poverty. Its ethos is simple yet powerful, “Provide the best you can, and you will receive the most you want.”
Despite facing early challenges—including operating from a makeshift shack next to a tavern—the centre has made meaningful progress. Milestones include successful winter clothing drives and community awareness campaigns.
The centre supports efforts to eliminate all forms of violence and abuse against children. Services offered include homework assistance, after-school bread and meals, dancing, drama, and agricultural activities.
To continue its mission, the foundation is appealing for support to rebuild and expand the centre. Their vision includes creating a permanent home for the 96 children currently in their care. A project proposal outlines three core objectives:
Rebuild the existing centre structure
Expand facilities to accommodate all the children
Establish sustainable programmes such as daily breakfast sessions
Founder Sibongile Jele shared her hopes, “I wish we could get help—especially a psychologist to offer counselling and fight the trauma. A piece of land to grow produce would also help, or any kind of donation.”
“As we approach Christmas, my wish is to buy each and every child a set of clothes so that they can be happy like any other children,” she said. “I’m just a traumatised, merciful mother without anything—but my children must not suffer for their parents’ actions.”
