On 1 December in observance of World AIDS Day 2025, the Coega Development Corporation (Coega) visited the House of Resurrection AIDS Haven in Salsoneville, Bethelsdorp, to donate a substantial quantity of non-perishable food items collected through an employee food donation drive. For the first time in recent years, this initiative sees Coega extending its engagement to include suburbs across Gqeberha, moving past its immediate vicinity.
Leading up to World AIDS Day 2025, Coega employees were encouraged to contribute to the donation drive to make a tangible difference in the lives of the home’s young residents ahead of the festive season. In addition to the food donations, lunch packs were generously sponsored by the Bluewater Bay Sunrise Hotel.
Coega Sustainability Manager, Mr. Simphiwe Silwana, explained that the impetus for the donation stemmed from the need to have a genuine impact on the lives of community members.
“We are here today to support those affected by HIV/AIDS and to remember those who have lost their lives. This year’s theme is Rethink Rebuild and Rise, and we decided to rethink our approach to World AIDS Day. This year, we really wanted to give back to members of the Nelson Mandela Bay community. HIV is not just a public health issue, but a socio-economic issue. We decided to rally together to make a tangible difference ahead of the festive season.”
The House of Resurrection AIDS Haven was originally established as an AIDS Haven dedicated to the treatment of HIV-positive community members. In 2010, the facility transitioned into a cluster foster home now known as the House of Resurrection AIDS Haven, focusing on raising children and youth who are affected by HIV/AIDS. The Haven is currently home to 7 young people ranging from the age of 13 to 24.
House of Resurrection House Mother, Ms. Fragrance Afrika, shared that the Haven has evolved over the years due to changing circumstances and dwindling funding. “This home no longer receives funding and is currently operating on donations and good will. More than 30 young people used to call this Haven their home, but due to a lack of funding, we now have 7 permanent residents. I just want to say thank you to Coega for this donation.”
Cassandra Newefeldt (20), who has called the House of Resurrection home since 2018, expressed the significance of visits to the haven:
“This place makes me feel loved and protected. Visits and donations like this are extremely important to us. It makes us feel seen and loved, and that is what we need.”
Coega’s visit to the House of Resurrection AIDS Haven serves as a powerful affirmation of its sustained commitment to socio-economic upliftment within the Nelson Mandela Bay region and beyond.
