HOPE Centre

Since the last time we spoke, the HOPE Centre has been busy continuing to fight hypertension and chronic diseases in communities in South Africa through its screening campaigns, community outreach and the holistic preventive care and treatment provided at the Centre.  On November 14^th, 2015, HOPE Centre staff, volunteers and partners took to the streets once again to promote public awareness of diabetes and education in honor of World Diabetes Day.

In South Africa, there are more than 3.5 million people who are currently suffering from diabetes.  About 60 individuals die every day due to diabetes in South Africa.  More than 50% of those who have diabetes in South Africa are never diagnosed and are unaware of the disease and its health impact.  On World Diabetes Day, the HOPE Centre staff along with the Empilweni Nursing College, community leaders, local volunteers and partners from the Right to Car (an HIV Counseling & Testing Organization) worked together to hold a health fair.  The event included screenings, patient education and demonstrations to encourage all residents to test, prevent and learn how to manage diabetes. 

Project HOPE’s own President & CEO, Dr. Tom Kenyon, attended the event and was even screened himself!  The day was a big success and included face painting for children, food, healthy eating demonstrations, entertainment, interactive activities for adults and children and critically needed health education and awareness in the community. 

Since 2012, the HOPE Centre has trained 119 community health workers and screened more than 10,387 people.  Thanks to your generous support, Project HOPE will be able to continue this life-saving work and reach those most in need in South Africa.