13 women contribute to touching book for charity

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MOSSEL BAY NEWS - Thirteen single mothers or previously single mothers have contributed to a touching book, released by Mossel Bay's The Myrtle Tree non-profit organisation.

The Myrtle Tree, founded by Berenice Kogana, assists single mothers by providing necessities to moms and their newborn babies at Provincial Hospital and offering counselling to single moms and pregnant teens, among others.

Radio programme presenter

Berenice is a published author, Eden FM radio programme presenter, pastor, counsellor and women's conference organiser and hostess.

She is also the leader of the Mossel Bay branch of the SA Council for Business Women (SACBW) and sits on the boards of respected charities in town.

When Berenice asked for would-be contributors for the book, From the Heart of a Single Mother, she received replies from 13 women.

Perfect number

She was amazed because it was the perfect number of contributions for the book and she did not have to leave anyone out or, had she received too few replies, go looking for more contributors.

There is a chapter for each of the women, who come from vastly different backgrounds and have different careers. Most of the women are local, and if not, they have ties with Mossel Bay.

Berenice held the book launch on 11 May, as a celebration of Mother's Day, in the D'Almeida Civic Hall.

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Wonderful celebration

Once again, highly proficient at organising women's events, she pulled off a wonderful celebration, where women were treated to a high tea, uplifted and encouraged.

There was much warmth and laughter at the event.

Not all of the 13 contributors were able to attend, but those who did, were introduced and signed the copies of the book which were on display.

'Good Father'

Berenice said that in reading the women's stories when she compiled the book, she was struck by the thought: "What a good Father is God."

She was also impressed that although the women had gone through hard times, they showed no bitterness in their stories.

One of the contributors could not afford to top up her electricity at home, so she used to open the curtains at night, so the streetlights could light up her house.

Opportunity

Three of the authors took the opportunity to share part of their stories and give words of encouragement to women at the launch.

Well-known Mossel Bay educationist Claire du Plessis, known by many simply as Miss Claire, was a good MC, always able to speak off the cuff and deliver the right words at the right moment.

To purchase a book, contact Berenice (082 559 9389 or blwkogana@gmail.com). The book costs R150 and funds from sales of the book go towards the work of The Myrtle Tree.

Some of the book contributors, Magdalena Kees, Ree Roux, Amanda Joubert, Bonita Strydom, Christene Louw, Shirley Lottering and Catherine Hector, with Berenice Kogana. Photo: Linda Sparg