A fundraising campaign has been created on Donations Based crowdfunding platform, BackaBuddy for the seven-year-old girl who was allegedly raped at Dros restaurant in Silverglen‚ Pretoria.
The crowdfunding initiative, set up by concerned South Africans who have asked to remain anonymous.
“We don’t need any recognition or importance out of it, what’s important is that we come together as concerned South Africans, and help this young victim, whose life has all but been destroyed. Our team was saddened and disturbed by the events and our hearts go out to the victim and her family.” – says campaign creator
The campaign was launched on the 3rd of October and has thus far raised R139 184.30 with contributions from South Africa and abroad. One donor contributed as much as USD $ 2122.47 (R31,018.97).
“We know that rape can traumatize the victim emotionally for years afterwards, so we hope the funds raised will be used for therapy and rehabilitation for the victim so that she can have some semblance of normality or even happiness again.” – says campaign creator
Due to the sensitivity of this high profile case, Backabuddy COO, Catherine Du Plooy has been in contact with Kiniel Muthray, the lawyer and spokesperson for the family.
“The family is still trying to come to terms with the shock, physical and emotional trauma that this matter has caused. In what has been a very trying time, the family wishes to extend their sincere gratitude to the campaign creator, the BackaBuddy team and the 195 donors who have generously supported this cause through donations and messages of support” – says Muthray.
All funds raised with this initiative, will be strictly managed by Backabuddy NPC. Funds will only be released to the family directly or to relevant practitioners identified by the family to help cover any needs she might have.
“The campaign for this young girl is still accepting donations and funds raised will be used for their intended purpose to help rebuild her life and cover any needs the family has during this difficult time” – says Du Plooy.
If you would like to support this little girl with her treatment you can donate here or visit the BackaBuddy.co.za homepage.
For more information contact info@backabuddy.co.za
A 21-year-old man arrested in connection with the rape is in custody and has already appeared in the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court. He will return to the same court on November 1.
