Abraham Kriel Bambanani provides services in Soweto (Zola and Emdeni) for 300+ orphaned and vulnerable children and youth via two care models, namely Home-Based Care and Drop-In Centres.
With the children in the care of their guardians, (in many cases their grandmothers, aunties or adult siblings) income is a huge problem, resulting in poor nutrition, high school drop-out rates, teenage pregnancies and a lack of hope.
Children in our programmes go to the Drop-In Centres or aftercare centres after school where teachers and childcare workers assist them with their school work or other problems and needs.
WHAT DO WE DO?
- The development of these children is of primary importance if we wish to break the cycle of poverty and disease. We take steps to ensure that children attend school and ensure that the children have adequate school clothing and stationary.
- When it comes to pre-primary education, we often take responsibility for enrolment and school fees.
- Where possible, school leavers are provided access to employment networks, skills training or bursaries for tertiary studies.
- We provide a holistic service, including physical, emotional, educational, social/recreational and spiritual support for the children.
- Food is provided daily at the Drop-In Centres and aftercare centres which includes a balanced lunch consisting of a protein, starch and two vegetables. Fruit is given if and when funds are available. Four slices of bread is provided to children in the home based care programme, whilst soft porridge is available to children that attend the drop-in centres in the mornings before school.
- Healthcare includes visits to local clinics and supervision of medication.
- Therapy includes bereavement counselling and life skills training.
- Poverty alleviation projects include vegetable gardens and beadwork. Adult members of the families on our programme access these opportunities.
- Parties and outings are provided as and when the opportunity presents itself. Preference is given to outings for educational purposes.
HOW DOES IT MAKE A DIFFERENCE
School drop-out rates have decreased significantly and the number of children passing grade 12 and aspiring to tertiary training has increased.
Teenage pregnancies have decreased dramatically.
Children’s marks and concentration levels have increased at school due to an adequate diet and homework support.
Children who were once too weak to walk can now enjoy wonderful interaction with other children at the Centre.
With the life skills learnt, a teenage boy realised he should be more responsible on weekends.
A child who lost a loved one due to HIV/AIDS has a shoulder to cry on and much support.
A little one’s face covered in the aftermath of a delicious lunch, is priceless!
