Urgent need for emergency shelters for women, children in Chatsworth

COMMUNITY leaders in Chatsworth are urgently advocating for the establishment of emergency shelters to support women and children fleeing abuse, highlighting the dire need for immediate action and resources.

- YOSHINI PERUMAL

Brandon Pillay, a community leader in Chatsworth, and founder of the Bayview Ubuntu Community Centre, said there was a great demand and need for shelters for women, children and the elderly.

"Recently, an 11-year-old rape victim, his sister and his mother were under attack in the community by the alleged perpetrator’s supporters. I worked with the police to try to find a safe house for them.

"The first one we found could not accommodate the children, and it could only keep the mom.

"The second one was all the way in Phoenix where there was an outbreak of hand, foot and mouth disease. So we could not move them there," he added.

Pillay said the boy needed to be with his mother, who was his safe person at a time.

"The boy was a victim of rape and sexual assault, and he was scared. They were brought back to the police station that night, with nowhere to go. I eventually took them back home. I spoke to the residents and told them that the boy was a victim of a harsh crime, and he was not leaving the community as he was a victim and not a perpetrator.

"I assured the mom and children of their safety, and I monitored them throughout the night," he said.

(GBV) and cases against children generally create interest no matter who it is. When the issue involves a minor, it strikes a sensitive cord in the public.