Streetchildren safe and cared for under lockdown
I Care staff have been instrumental in the care of street children through these trying times.
IF residents are wondering where all the street children have gone during lockdown, they are being cared for by I Care.
The organisation, which has been looking after, rehabilitating, educating and skilling street boys in the city for the past 18 years, has a contingent of caring staff who have been instrumental in the care of these children through trying times.
Gail Elson from I Care said: “We have to be extremely vigilant in keeping both our children and staff safe and healthy. The staff have been outstanding in their efforts to educate, plan and carry out the necessary tasks that will ensure the safety of our boys as our top priority, and with respect and consideration for each other as colleagues under trying circumstances.”
She said the planning and implementation of the lockdown was carried out smoothly and hurdles met and overcome with great commitment.
The organisation's three I Care Houses and Umuzi Rehabilitation Centre, collectively housing 35 children and 11 houseparents, have been in total lockdown since 18 March, allowing no visitors at all. Full DSTV packages were installed at each facility as well as new four-in-one games tables purchased for entertainment, as the boys are an energetic bunch.
“All facilities have the necessary education, sanitisation and protection necessary. To keep a strict eye on the boys and staff we are being strict with regular temperature checks and charting. We thank the Department of Social Development for their input and support. Our outreach team continues to work during this period of lockdown, providing any urgent needs,” she said.
Gail said there are currently six older I Care boys staying at Jump Youth Mission in Buffelsdraai, where they are going through the rehabilitation programme Sakhimpilo, and are about to begin their skills training. All the necessary safety and hygiene precautions are in place and this facility is practicing social distancing and complete lockdown while going about their daily programmes.
“Our Aftercare manager has delivered 12 food parcels to families in need and will also ensure that the outpatient detox boys get to their clinic appointments each week. I Care would like to thank donors for the generous donations of sandwiches, fruit and Easter eggs,” she said.
To make a donation visit: www.icare.co.za.
