A Bridgetown community project aimed at assisting young boys to fight gender based violence received a boost this week thanks to a donation of bicycles by Community Safety MEC Reagen Allen.
The Triple B project started by the Callas Foundation sees 35 boys from Bridgetown and surrounding communities attend weekly workshops to educate them on violence, abuse and sexual consent.
The programme, targeted at boys between the ages of 10 and 16, has been endorsed by the Women Judges Association who is represented by Magistrate Raees Khan and in partnership with the Saartjie Baartman Centre.
Founder: Caroline Peters. Picture: supplied
Allen explains the bikes will help mentors to conduct house visits as transportation for the project was a concern.
At the handover last week, he told the boys: “Respect and kindness are also core components of true masculinity. Let us always treat others with dignity, regardless of their background or beliefs, is crucial. This means listening to others, valuing their opinions, and showing empathy.”
Mentor Clinton Lieberman expressed his thanks saying the mentors will no longer have to walk when they visit Triple B.
“The program focuses on at-risk boys. Reaching each boy when he needs our assistance is vital in supporting them to reach their goals.”
Project founder, Caroline Peters, says they are preparing to host their inaugural camp in the upcoming school holidays.
“Over the past 16 weeks and we have seen a significant change in the boys as they start to open up about sensitive topics. The City of Cape Town has donated a camping space at Zandvliet Nature Reserve and we will be hosting a camp from 1 to 4 July where we are still in need of help in the forms of food, transport and equipment.”
To donate contact Caroline Peters on 071 135 7175.