FOLLOW UP: Community support helps Boksburg Kidz Clinic bounce back after break-in

Boksburg Kidz Clinic is back on its feet after suffering a devastating blow on New Year’s Eve.

The clinic, which has been a lifeline for child abuse victims for over 25 years, was ransacked, vandalised and partially set on fire by a gang.

The destruction was devastating: medical equipment, therapy tools, and furniture were all severely damaged.

The total loss exceeded R210 000. Although the police swiftly apprehended the perpetrators, unfortunately, none of the stolen items were recovered.

For an organisation that has helped over 17 000 children across the East Rand, this was a heartbreaking setback.

WMACA (Women and Men Against Child Abuse), which runs the clinic, described the attack as “absolutely horrific.

Founder Miranda Jordan stressed how vital it is to rebuild the clinic into a safe and welcoming space for children.

“Insurance will cover basic repairs and we relied on public and corporate support to get back to full strength.”

Despite the destruction, the response from the community has been nothing short of inspiring.

“Donations poured in to replace essential items, and by January 20, the clinic was back to providing its most critical services.

Executive director Kevin Barbeau expressed his gratitude for the outpouring of support.

“So many children depend on us for therapy and to ensure their cases move forward in court. We are determined to emerge stronger.”

Nonhlahla Dlamini, who supervises the Kidz Clinic, admitted that getting back to work wasn’t easy.

“It was difficult to settle in. Many of our things were vandalised. Confidential files were lying on the floor. It was traumatic.

“We got back up and are running again all thanks to the community.”

Also Read: Thieves rob vulnerable children of Kidz Clinic services