Nestled in the heart of the Helderberg, Wandisa stands as a ray of hope for vulnerable children, playing a pivotal role in safeguarding their futures and nurturing them towards brighter tomorrows. This dedicated organisation is transforming lives through its unwavering commitment to child protection and family support.
A Lifeline for Vulnerable Children
Wandisa’s team of dedicated social workers intervenes in the lives of children who have been abandoned, neglected, abused, or institutionalised. With the guidance of their directors, Wandisa navigates the complexities of the legal system to secure the best outcomes for these children. Their work goes beyond crisis intervention, extending to meticulously screening and preparing foster and adoptive parents, ensuring every child finds a loving and stable home.
Support for Families in Crisis
In the past year alone, Wandisa provided critical assistance to 120 birth families, offering counselling and support during times of crisis, including pregnancies. This essential support helps families navigate difficult times and make informed decisions about their children’s futures.
Creating Loving Homes
Believing that every child deserves nurturing care until permanent plans can be made, Wandisa facilitated the safe placement of 148 children in local family homes in 2023, actively avoiding institutionalisation. Additionally, 36 children found their forever families through adoption, with 25 joining South African households and 11 overcoming extraordinary challenges to be welcomed into homes abroad.
The Heart of Wandisa: Community and Commitment
Founder and director of Wandisa Child Protection NPC, Debbie Wybrow, highlights the critical need for community support: “Children cannot pay for what they need. Over 80% of the children we serve face significant medical, physical, psycho-social, and educational hurdles. Each child we work with requires extensive and ongoing assessments to chart the best path forward.” Debbie told Bolander Lifestyle
As Child Protection Week is observed from today, Wednesday May 29 to Wednesday June 5, Wandisa’s dedication to vulnerable children is more apparent than ever. Wandisa’s Chief Operations Officer, Michelle Myburgh, along with other dedicated runners, will lace up their takkies for the Knysna Forest Marathon, ready to make every step count.
Running with Purpose: The Knysna Half Marathon
Wandisa has initiated a BackaBuddy campaign, culminating in their participation in the Knysna Half Marathon on 22 June 2024. This event underscores the urgency of their mission. “We’re hitting the pavement with purpose, driven by the belief that every child’s journey deserves to be extraordinary,” says Wandisa. “Join us in our mission to transform lives and secure brighter futures for vulnerable children.”
How You Can Help
The work Wandisa does is vital, and they need your support to continue making a difference. To support Wandisa and help pave the future for vulnerable children, visit their BackaBuddy crowdfunding campaign page where they have already raised over R22 000 of their R100 000 goal with the help of 17 amazing donors. Join hands with Wandisa and make a lasting impact on the lives of vulnerable children in Helderberg.
SOURCE & IMAGE CREDITS: BOLANDER LIFESTYLE