Confronting Gender-Based Violence with Compassion and Support

In South Africa, while laws addressing gender-based violence (GBV) are progressive, their implementation often falls short, leaving many victims without adequate support during their recovery journey. Recognising this gap, TEARS Foundation, a leading anti-GBV organisation, has launched the Soothing the Nation campaign—a powerful initiative to provide victims with a trusted place to turn for help.

Giving Survivors a Voice and Support

Mara Glennie, Founder and CEO of TEARS Foundation and a GBV survivor, explains, “Survivors are not statistics. They are individuals carrying trauma, shame, and the fear of retaliation. To truly help them, we must address the stigma and create an environment of trust and support.”

This campaign acknowledges the barriers that silence victims, including fear, self-blame, and a lack of trusted resources. By creating a national symbol of hope, TEARS Foundation provides survivors with critical support pathways, enabling recovery and safety.

TEARS Foundation’s Lifesaving Services

TEARS Foundation offers free, confidential assistance 24/7, 365 days a year, ensuring survivors have immediate access to essential services, including:

• Toll-Free Helpline: Call 08000 TEARS (08000 83277) for confidential support.
• Free USSD Service: Dial 1347355# to locate nearby support facilities.
• Direct Line: Contact 010 590 5920 (standard rates apply).
• WhatsApp Support: Send a message to 066 435 3108.
• Support Locator: Visit tears.storefind.mobi to identify local centres.
• Email Support: Write to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for guidance.

By leveraging innovative technology and fostering a network of emergency shelters, medical care, and legal assistance, TEARS Foundation ensures survivors are never alone in their fight against violence.

A Symbol of Hope and Recovery

TEARS Foundation is celebrated for its hands-on assistance, including police follow-ups, protection order applications, and counselling services. The organisation’s efforts have become a lifeline for countless individuals, bridging the gap between advocacy and actionable support.

The Soothing the Nation campaign video, created by DarkMatter Communications, features sound engineer Kevin Leicher from Jazzworx and the Johannesburg Queer Chorus. The video embodies the campaign’s mission of compassion and healing.

Press Release Submitted By

Organisation Name: TEARS Foundation
Media Contact: Caroline Hillary, DarkMatter
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Contact Number: +27 83 278 3906
Fundraising Contact: Visit https://tears.co.za/donate

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Social Media Post

TEARS Foundation Launches Soothing the Nation Campaign
A beacon of hope for GBV survivors in South Africa. Access free, confidential help 24/7.

#SoothingTheNation #GBVSupport #TearsFoundation #EndGBV #mypressportal #pressrelease #AfricaNewsroom #bizcommunity #publicrelations #africa #southernafrica #southafrica

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