Project Report
| Feb 28, 2013
Back to school
By Rev Rachel Mash | Coordinator
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Waving goodbye
A new school year – a new start
For children whose lives have been turned upside down by abuse, neglect or abandonment, school can play a huge role in providing stability and continuity. More than that, it provides a space to be a child among other children, a 'normal' experience in the middle of events that have made the child feel 'different'.
The start of the new school year (in January) is therefore a time of great excitement! There are new clothes (school uniform) and a new start, and lots of new possibilities to make a new start.
And meanwhile - the little ones stay at home with their carers and say good bye to their bigger brothers and sisters
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Jan 25, 2013
Christmas at the Childrem's Centre
By Andrea Harper | Development Worker
Christmas is am unusual time at Fikelela's Children's Centre - it is quiet!
But for the best of all reasons - all the children are enjoying a family Christmas.
December is often the time that school-aged children finally go to live with extended family or foster families, as it is the end of the school year. This year we found 26 children 'forever families' - and took in 26 more! There is a shortage of places for children who have been abandoned or abused, so we are always full.
For the children who can't go to a 'forever family' there is still a family Christmas. Sometimes extended family are able to have their grandchild, neice or nephew for a visit, but are not able to give them a home full-time. Those with no extended family go to stay with staff members and join in with their family celebrations.
Then, just before school starts again in January, the noise levels rise again!
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Oct 22, 2012
Children being reunited with families
By Rachel mash | Coordinator
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One of the challenges of working with orphans is that the mother has often lost touch with the extended family. Sometimes this is due to the stigma of HIV, or of falling pregnant, and the fear of rejection by family members.
Some of these extended family members live is distant rural areas in other parts of South Africa, and making contact is a challenge.
What a joy last month when our auxiliary social worker was able to escort two siblings on the 12 hour bus drive for them to reunited with their grandmother who had never met them. After initial nervousness at meeting this 'strange' granny, the children began to bond, and it was a joyous time for the family. They knew their daughter had passed away but had no idea where the children were.
Our social worker and auxiliary social worker often have to become detectives to track families down, but the hard work is worth it!! Thank you for your support through GlobalGiving.
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