Since 2006 I have been involved , in quite a remote way, with a project whose main emphasis is counseling and assisting mothers from the poorer areas surrounding Retreat, Cape Town, before and when they give birth. I say remote, because i have really only been working through a friend of mine, collecting products to give to these women and not really visiting or contributing in a way which i know would make a real difference.
I contacted Tracey, who initiated the Zoe Project 6 years ago, and visited her at the clinic, to find out exactly what the needs are and what it is that the people who work with the Zoe Project, do.
I would like to introduce this project to you and truly hope that you would join me in making a difference in the life of someone who is less fortunate than us.
The Retreat Maternity Clinic falls under Mowbray Maternity. It is a small clinic where these women, and often they are young girls, go to have their babies. There are only trainee doctors and the nursing staff to assist them. Should there be emergencies, they are sent to Groote Schuur hospital. These moms have to leave the clinic 6 hours after giving birth ; going back to their shacks in the shanty towns or their backyard Wendy houses - if they are lucky enough to live in one.
In most cases, the moms do not even have the most basic of things [like a toothbrush, sanitary pads or even a blanket in which to wrap their precious little babies.] The clinic has a kettle and they make tea and coffee - with the once a month delivery from the Department of Health, but they do not provide enough. They do not have a dinner facility to those who stay overnight to have their babies - so, if they don't bring their own food, they do not eat! [A very kind lady prepares 40 x 250g margarine tubs filled with soup, which is frozen and kept for the overnight deliveries. But that is only once a month and when it is done, there is none left until the next delivery.]
The Zoe Project was established approximately 6 years ago by Tracey. She and her partner, Joanne have worked very hard at establishing a relationship with the sisters and nurses at the clinic. They have been allowed to provide this very necessary service through very hard work. The Zoe Project offers the following free services to these new moms:
* Give pregnancy and psychological counseling - which is the main concentration of the
program.
* Give pregnancy educational talks - 1 hour long - of what to expect during pregnancy and
labour.
* Assist in information about adoption as well as facilitate the adoptions - 20% of all
children adopted from South Africa internationally, come from the Retreat Clinic.
* Assist in removing moms and children from dangerous and abusive situations and place
them in a place of safety.
* Try to give a MOMS & BABY pack to every baby born at the clinic - although there is
never enough and we therefore, only give to the neediest and most desperate.
* Try to get Dullah's involved with the clinic - women who sit with the moms while they are
in labour - just holding hands, rubbing tummies or wiping foreheads with a damp cloth.
* The 40 x 250g margarine tubs filled with soup.
What is it that I'd like you to be part of?
My involvement is purely to get a network of caring people together who will assist me in the following:
Providing some of, or all of the products for one MOM&BABY pack once a month.
Providing some of, or all of the products to fill our Dry-goods Pantry at the clinic - this was opened on 1 October 2008. - once a month.
The Zoe Project is not just a "let's give away a whole lot of things" where everyone in the neighbourhood goes because they know they get "free stuff". These products to ONLY to the neediest of people.
So, what is a MOM&BABY'S pack?
MOM'S PACKS consists of:
1 x 2litre ice-cream container filled with the following goods:
* a toothbrush and toothpaste
* one panty - sized Medium
* sanitary towels - 2
* soap and a facecloth
* a booster snack or biscuits
* small fruit juice
* small hand lotion or lip ice
BABY'S PACKS consists of:
1 x litre ice-cream container filled with the following goods:
* all NEW PRODUCTS AND NEW BORN SIZED [it is important to the dignity of the people who already have nothing that they are given NEW THINGS for their precious babies]
* Baby grow
* vest
* 2 Nappies
* Knitted or other cap, booties and jersey
* knitted blanket
* receiving blanket
* soft knitted toy
* baby products - no earbuds or powder
DRY-GOODS PANTRY
Goods to continue with our dry-goods pantry include:
* Jungle oats
* Tea and Coffee
* Sugar
* Powdered or longlife milk
* 2 minute noodles
* rice
* pasta
* tinned foods [mixed veg, bully beef, pilchards, baked beans, tinned tomatoes, etc]
* spreads for bread [marmite, peanut butter, jams]
* cup-a-soup
As I said, these things make such a huge difference in the lives of people who already have so little. Please help me and become a part of this network of incredible people who contribute and help.
Leave a message on the blog of how you may be contacted if you are interested in helping.
A further update about our project will follow.
Best wishes
Norah
xxxxx
Friday, March 20, 2026
Monday, April 16, 2012
Update March - April 2012
Hello everybody
I trust that you’ve all had a great Easter or Passover! We have had a double-dose as Greek Easter fell on the weekend after Easter due to the difference in the Gregorian calendar. What a great time to spend special time and create moments with family and friends?
I would like to start this update by sharing a letter from one of the women who received counseling from Tracey at the Zoe Project. She writes about her life and states how the intervention and help has changed her life for the better...
Letter from Angela Reading*
“Well, this is a very, very short version of my life story.
I am Angela Reading *. I am 29 years old and I’ve got 4 children.
My life hasn’t been all blooming flowers due to the choices I have made.
I had a boyfriend whom I loved so much but he beat me, he abused me mentally and physically. I’ve got two children by him that he does not support at all. And for this reason I wanted to give my last baby away for adoption.
And that is how I met Tracey and heard of the Zoe Project.
My love for people made me allow them to walk all over me. Because I’m so easy to forgive, I fall into the same trop over and over again.
I came to the point where I had enough of everyone who used me.
While I was pregnant I had to walk out everyday and go from door to door to look for cleaning work. I had so much stress on me with my kids to support, a boyfriend who was on drugs and to top things, my boyfriend’s family only knew me when I had money. It was always about money – something I didn’t have.
All I had and worked for had to go for bills: the rent, the water, to buy food and for a shack that had more holes than I wish to count.
Well, I just couldn’t handle it anymore. I had enough. I was at the worst - I didn’t have the strength anymore.
Meeting Tracey made me see things more clearly than ever and in a completely different light. She showed me how it felt to be loved. She’s the one I look up to. She taught me to follow my dreams and the dream I had was to work with people.
So I started my own group. We discuss how we feel, what we went through. What our dreams are. What wrong choices we made and how to compare our lives.
We are a group of 20 young people. We pray, we hug, we cry. We talk about drug abuse, about being abused and what it feels like now, and what we can do to help each other.
This is what helps me and my friends to survive. I’ve got Tracey to thank for always believing in me and showing me the way.
We need to trust that we can overcome our situations. Thank you, Tracey for changing my life and for allowing me to find my potential.”
*Name has been changed to protect identity. The letter has been used with the permission of it’s author.
Thank you to the following contributors:
Dr Lara Smith, Bronwyn Hopwood and Marlene Helfrecht, Ada and Henk Timmerman, Sharon Wewege and Heather Mylne, Our anonymous friends at the New Beginnings Clinic, Michael P., Newlands Lions Club, Tania Bain, the late Dr Van Hoorn and his family, Lakeside Baptist Church, Allan Dillon and the Mountain Men, Samantha at Barksole in Tokai, Denise and Willem van Bergen and Rosemary van der Post.
Thank you for your continued support and contributions.
News from the clinic
Doula’s - We are fortunate to say that we have 2 new Doula’s who have joined the Zoe Project. Anne and Leigh work on different days at Retreat MOU. As I have mentioned before, the Doula’s play a very important role for the moms during labour - for the emotional support of the moms. Not just during labour, but also afterwards.
Awards – Now I know what you’re thinking when you see the word ‘awards’! No, we are not rewarding any member of the Zoe Committee, nor members of staff at the clinics, but rather a new concept for the clients whom we see in terms of counseling.
It is difficult to bare your soul to another person but through counseling, we have helped so many people. Tracey came up with the idea of giving an award each month to the person or persons whom have grown so much, are achieving good things in life, and have rediscovered who they are after going through our counseling programs.
The award is a small wooden plaque with a star on it, and on the award is engraved the name of the person and their ‘characteristic’ most explaining their achievement. For most of the people who receive the award, it would be their first.
Awards handed out so far:
January – “Teachable Spirit”. This was given to a mom and dad who are taking young boys who are tik addicts into their home and looking after them. Giving them a safe place to learn and grow and recover. The mom went through the Zoe counseling process and is using what she has learnt to help others.
February - “Clean for 48 Days”. A young mom who has been clean of tik for 48 days. She has indicated that once she’s gone through the program that she would like to start a support group for her young brother and some of his friends.
The look on the faces of the recipient is priceless. They realise that someone believes in them and the encouragement they receive, helps them see their dreams.
I would like to add that Samantha from Barksole in Tokai is the kind sponsor of the award as well as the engraving done on the award.
What we desperately need!
The Dry Goods Pantry
This pantry was started in Oct 2009 under the premises that, as long as we have donations, we will continue to stock it. Unfortunately, early last year, two of our major contributors decided to discontinue their contribution due to personal reasons. Due to this, we have been unable to give the amount of tinned food and other dried goods on a regular basis to the Retreat MOU kitchen. The reason we started the dry goods pantry was to fill-up on the shortfall that was provided to them. We would like to continue with the dry goods pantry and require the following items on a regular basis – tinned tomatoes, tinned meat and vegetables, 2 minute noodles, packet soups, rice and pasta.
Mom and baby packs
We are currently in desperate need of the following items – new baby grows and vests for newborns, receiving blankets and/or winter sheeting to make receiving blankets and small toys.
Maternity pads and juices for the mom packs as well as toothpaste and toothbrushes and panties [sized medium], lip-ice, deodorant, soap, facecloths and small packets of biscuits.
If you would like to contribute one or all of the abovementioned items, please contact me to discuss this.
On a personal note
Part of the work that I do, is to write – I write blogspots, brochures, workshops and workbooks. Should you require the use any of the information [part of or in its entirety] in this or other updates or from the blogspot, that you, as a professional courtesy to me, contact me to get permission before using it as it is copyright protected. xxx
Thank you again so much for all the supporting emails and phone calls that we receive – it makes a difference to our lives too and we can pass messages on to the various staff members who work at the clinics and in the field.
Until next time, stay well.
Norah Papanicolaou
I trust that you’ve all had a great Easter or Passover! We have had a double-dose as Greek Easter fell on the weekend after Easter due to the difference in the Gregorian calendar. What a great time to spend special time and create moments with family and friends?
I would like to start this update by sharing a letter from one of the women who received counseling from Tracey at the Zoe Project. She writes about her life and states how the intervention and help has changed her life for the better...
Letter from Angela Reading*
“Well, this is a very, very short version of my life story.
I am Angela Reading *. I am 29 years old and I’ve got 4 children.
My life hasn’t been all blooming flowers due to the choices I have made.
I had a boyfriend whom I loved so much but he beat me, he abused me mentally and physically. I’ve got two children by him that he does not support at all. And for this reason I wanted to give my last baby away for adoption.
And that is how I met Tracey and heard of the Zoe Project.
My love for people made me allow them to walk all over me. Because I’m so easy to forgive, I fall into the same trop over and over again.
I came to the point where I had enough of everyone who used me.
While I was pregnant I had to walk out everyday and go from door to door to look for cleaning work. I had so much stress on me with my kids to support, a boyfriend who was on drugs and to top things, my boyfriend’s family only knew me when I had money. It was always about money – something I didn’t have.
All I had and worked for had to go for bills: the rent, the water, to buy food and for a shack that had more holes than I wish to count.
Well, I just couldn’t handle it anymore. I had enough. I was at the worst - I didn’t have the strength anymore.
Meeting Tracey made me see things more clearly than ever and in a completely different light. She showed me how it felt to be loved. She’s the one I look up to. She taught me to follow my dreams and the dream I had was to work with people.
So I started my own group. We discuss how we feel, what we went through. What our dreams are. What wrong choices we made and how to compare our lives.
We are a group of 20 young people. We pray, we hug, we cry. We talk about drug abuse, about being abused and what it feels like now, and what we can do to help each other.
This is what helps me and my friends to survive. I’ve got Tracey to thank for always believing in me and showing me the way.
We need to trust that we can overcome our situations. Thank you, Tracey for changing my life and for allowing me to find my potential.”
*Name has been changed to protect identity. The letter has been used with the permission of it’s author.
Thank you to the following contributors:
Dr Lara Smith, Bronwyn Hopwood and Marlene Helfrecht, Ada and Henk Timmerman, Sharon Wewege and Heather Mylne, Our anonymous friends at the New Beginnings Clinic, Michael P., Newlands Lions Club, Tania Bain, the late Dr Van Hoorn and his family, Lakeside Baptist Church, Allan Dillon and the Mountain Men, Samantha at Barksole in Tokai, Denise and Willem van Bergen and Rosemary van der Post.
Thank you for your continued support and contributions.
News from the clinic
Doula’s - We are fortunate to say that we have 2 new Doula’s who have joined the Zoe Project. Anne and Leigh work on different days at Retreat MOU. As I have mentioned before, the Doula’s play a very important role for the moms during labour - for the emotional support of the moms. Not just during labour, but also afterwards.
Awards – Now I know what you’re thinking when you see the word ‘awards’! No, we are not rewarding any member of the Zoe Committee, nor members of staff at the clinics, but rather a new concept for the clients whom we see in terms of counseling.
It is difficult to bare your soul to another person but through counseling, we have helped so many people. Tracey came up with the idea of giving an award each month to the person or persons whom have grown so much, are achieving good things in life, and have rediscovered who they are after going through our counseling programs.
The award is a small wooden plaque with a star on it, and on the award is engraved the name of the person and their ‘characteristic’ most explaining their achievement. For most of the people who receive the award, it would be their first.
Awards handed out so far:
January – “Teachable Spirit”. This was given to a mom and dad who are taking young boys who are tik addicts into their home and looking after them. Giving them a safe place to learn and grow and recover. The mom went through the Zoe counseling process and is using what she has learnt to help others.
February - “Clean for 48 Days”. A young mom who has been clean of tik for 48 days. She has indicated that once she’s gone through the program that she would like to start a support group for her young brother and some of his friends.
The look on the faces of the recipient is priceless. They realise that someone believes in them and the encouragement they receive, helps them see their dreams.
I would like to add that Samantha from Barksole in Tokai is the kind sponsor of the award as well as the engraving done on the award.
What we desperately need!
The Dry Goods Pantry
This pantry was started in Oct 2009 under the premises that, as long as we have donations, we will continue to stock it. Unfortunately, early last year, two of our major contributors decided to discontinue their contribution due to personal reasons. Due to this, we have been unable to give the amount of tinned food and other dried goods on a regular basis to the Retreat MOU kitchen. The reason we started the dry goods pantry was to fill-up on the shortfall that was provided to them. We would like to continue with the dry goods pantry and require the following items on a regular basis – tinned tomatoes, tinned meat and vegetables, 2 minute noodles, packet soups, rice and pasta.
Mom and baby packs
We are currently in desperate need of the following items – new baby grows and vests for newborns, receiving blankets and/or winter sheeting to make receiving blankets and small toys.
Maternity pads and juices for the mom packs as well as toothpaste and toothbrushes and panties [sized medium], lip-ice, deodorant, soap, facecloths and small packets of biscuits.
If you would like to contribute one or all of the abovementioned items, please contact me to discuss this.
On a personal note
Part of the work that I do, is to write – I write blogspots, brochures, workshops and workbooks. Should you require the use any of the information [part of or in its entirety] in this or other updates or from the blogspot, that you, as a professional courtesy to me, contact me to get permission before using it as it is copyright protected. xxx
Thank you again so much for all the supporting emails and phone calls that we receive – it makes a difference to our lives too and we can pass messages on to the various staff members who work at the clinics and in the field.
Until next time, stay well.
Norah Papanicolaou
Update January - February 2012
Hello everybody
January has gone by so quickly and the phrase ‘hit the ground running’ sums up quite nicely, how it has been for me on this side! We are hardly out of the holiday spirit when we have to go back to work, sort out the kids and their schedules, sort out our own routines and just basically get on with it! I so love January – everybody has New Year’s resolutions [which, let’s face it, lasts for about 5 minutes], but everything is fresh [new school year and new friends] and it is a time to re-assess where we are and what we’re doing.
Simplicity is the buzz-word at present – keeping things simple and do-able and that way, we don’t set ourselves up for failure or disappointment!
I hope that 2012 will be a year filled with many new things for you, that you’ll be productive in whichever project you find yourself working, that the people who surround you will make you happy and that you know that you are loved!
Thank you to the following contributors:
Dr Lara Smith, Marlene Helfrecht, Bronwyn Hopwood, Salomy Coetzee, Sandy Schuurmans, Audrey Hugo, Michael P., Denise and Willem van Bergen, Rosemary van der Pas, the Ladies at the Constantia Gardeners’ Club, Tania Bain, The Newlands’ Lions, Ada and Henk Timmerman, Ingrid Rix, Collyeen Sinclair, Heather Mylne, Sharon Wewege, our friends at The New Beginnings Clinic in Meadowridge, Pamela Cable, Annette Milner, Arlene Holt, Anonymous friends, and staff at SAPS Wynberg.
Retreat MOU
During December there were 164 babies born – 60 boys and 74 girls. There were only 3 babies born on Christmas day [quite unusual as it is normally about 10] but the Zoe personnel who spent the day at the clinic said that they couldn’t have asked for a more special Christmas day. The beautiful Christmas baby and mom packs were handed out to those who delivered their babies on the day and they were overjoyed by this.
Hanover Park MOU
There were 9 babies born on Christmas day at Hanover Park and with this being the first year that the Zoe Project has handed out Christmas mom and baby packs, not only were the moms overjoyed, but the staff who worked on Christmas day was overwhelmed by the Christmas day gesture. All babies born are healthy and beautiful. We have a desperate need for a Doula in Hanover Park – please contact me if you can commit a full day with the mom and are able to stay until she gives birth and if you are interested in helping out.
Baby and Mom packs – new items
We had great support last year for products for mom and baby packs and we really hope that this year will be the same. We are currently in desperate need of the following items – new baby grows and vests for newborns, receiving blankets and/or winter sheeting to make receiving blankets and small toys; maternity pads and juices for the mom packs as well as toothpaste and toothbrushes and panties [sized medium].
Dry Goods Pantry at Retreat MOU
The dry goods pantry was started in Oct 2009 under the premises that, as long as we have donations, we will continue to stock it. Unfortunately, early last year, two of our major contributors decided to discontinue their contribution due to personal reasons. Due to this, we have been unable to give the amount of tinned food and other dried goods on a regular basis to the Retreat MOU kitchen. The reason we started the dry goods pantry was to fill-up on the shortfall that was provided to them. We would like to continue with the dry goods pantry and require the following items on a regular basis – tinned tomatoes, tinned meat and vegetables, 2 minute noodles, packet soups, rice and pasta.
If you would like to contribute one or all of the abovementioned items, please contact me to discuss.
We are still receiving home made soup which is frozen and used as needed. 40 Units for Retreat and we’re starting to give to Hanover Park too. The donation of food from the Food Bank is less than it used to be and due to this too, we would like to be able to fill up the dry goods pantry again.
Should you be in a position to offer any of the abovementioned items, please contact me to discuss delivery or collection.
Our vision for 2012 is to continue to reach out to the moms and babies who require counseling; we are planning a number of talks, mostly at schools and with women’s groups. Information about us spread through word-of-mouth and I would like to ask each of you to continue sending our updates to your friends and people whom you know could possibly help us.
Guardian Angels
The thought of spending your birthday alone and unnoticed is something that touches each of us. I am in the process of arranging a project called Guardian Angels for the St George’s Children’s home under the Information Empowers Banner. This would be that each of the 40 girls there [age ranging between 3 and 16] receive one special gift on their birthday. The idea is that my birthday is in June and I will buy a special gift for a child there whose birthday is either on my birthday or in the month of June.
This project will only work if we have the following:
40 people who absolutely commit to ‘adopting’ a child on her birthday [there are 40 children in the home].
Each person to buy one special gift for their ‘adopted’ child and for that person to personally deliver the gift to St George’s home for the child on her birthday.
I would like to just request that if you are interested to be part of this project, to send me an email in order for me to gauge interest. Unless all the children have one Guardian Angel, the project cannot go ahead. Please let me know your thoughts on this.
Second Hand clothing
Seasons are changing and we all ‘grow’ out of our clothing. Please remember us when you want to donate or throw out your clothing that you no longer use – adults and children!
Information Empowers on Facebook
Please join us on Facebook if you have a Facebook account, and please share on your wall in Facebook. The more people talking about Child Sexual Abuse and prevention, the more awareness will be created. The link is below.
Have a wonderful Valentine’s Day today and as always, much love
Norah Papanicolaou
January has gone by so quickly and the phrase ‘hit the ground running’ sums up quite nicely, how it has been for me on this side! We are hardly out of the holiday spirit when we have to go back to work, sort out the kids and their schedules, sort out our own routines and just basically get on with it! I so love January – everybody has New Year’s resolutions [which, let’s face it, lasts for about 5 minutes], but everything is fresh [new school year and new friends] and it is a time to re-assess where we are and what we’re doing.
Simplicity is the buzz-word at present – keeping things simple and do-able and that way, we don’t set ourselves up for failure or disappointment!
I hope that 2012 will be a year filled with many new things for you, that you’ll be productive in whichever project you find yourself working, that the people who surround you will make you happy and that you know that you are loved!
Thank you to the following contributors:
Dr Lara Smith, Marlene Helfrecht, Bronwyn Hopwood, Salomy Coetzee, Sandy Schuurmans, Audrey Hugo, Michael P., Denise and Willem van Bergen, Rosemary van der Pas, the Ladies at the Constantia Gardeners’ Club, Tania Bain, The Newlands’ Lions, Ada and Henk Timmerman, Ingrid Rix, Collyeen Sinclair, Heather Mylne, Sharon Wewege, our friends at The New Beginnings Clinic in Meadowridge, Pamela Cable, Annette Milner, Arlene Holt, Anonymous friends, and staff at SAPS Wynberg.
Retreat MOU
During December there were 164 babies born – 60 boys and 74 girls. There were only 3 babies born on Christmas day [quite unusual as it is normally about 10] but the Zoe personnel who spent the day at the clinic said that they couldn’t have asked for a more special Christmas day. The beautiful Christmas baby and mom packs were handed out to those who delivered their babies on the day and they were overjoyed by this.
Hanover Park MOU
There were 9 babies born on Christmas day at Hanover Park and with this being the first year that the Zoe Project has handed out Christmas mom and baby packs, not only were the moms overjoyed, but the staff who worked on Christmas day was overwhelmed by the Christmas day gesture. All babies born are healthy and beautiful. We have a desperate need for a Doula in Hanover Park – please contact me if you can commit a full day with the mom and are able to stay until she gives birth and if you are interested in helping out.
Baby and Mom packs – new items
We had great support last year for products for mom and baby packs and we really hope that this year will be the same. We are currently in desperate need of the following items – new baby grows and vests for newborns, receiving blankets and/or winter sheeting to make receiving blankets and small toys; maternity pads and juices for the mom packs as well as toothpaste and toothbrushes and panties [sized medium].
Dry Goods Pantry at Retreat MOU
The dry goods pantry was started in Oct 2009 under the premises that, as long as we have donations, we will continue to stock it. Unfortunately, early last year, two of our major contributors decided to discontinue their contribution due to personal reasons. Due to this, we have been unable to give the amount of tinned food and other dried goods on a regular basis to the Retreat MOU kitchen. The reason we started the dry goods pantry was to fill-up on the shortfall that was provided to them. We would like to continue with the dry goods pantry and require the following items on a regular basis – tinned tomatoes, tinned meat and vegetables, 2 minute noodles, packet soups, rice and pasta.
If you would like to contribute one or all of the abovementioned items, please contact me to discuss.
We are still receiving home made soup which is frozen and used as needed. 40 Units for Retreat and we’re starting to give to Hanover Park too. The donation of food from the Food Bank is less than it used to be and due to this too, we would like to be able to fill up the dry goods pantry again.
Should you be in a position to offer any of the abovementioned items, please contact me to discuss delivery or collection.
Our vision for 2012 is to continue to reach out to the moms and babies who require counseling; we are planning a number of talks, mostly at schools and with women’s groups. Information about us spread through word-of-mouth and I would like to ask each of you to continue sending our updates to your friends and people whom you know could possibly help us.
Guardian Angels
The thought of spending your birthday alone and unnoticed is something that touches each of us. I am in the process of arranging a project called Guardian Angels for the St George’s Children’s home under the Information Empowers Banner. This would be that each of the 40 girls there [age ranging between 3 and 16] receive one special gift on their birthday. The idea is that my birthday is in June and I will buy a special gift for a child there whose birthday is either on my birthday or in the month of June.
This project will only work if we have the following:
40 people who absolutely commit to ‘adopting’ a child on her birthday [there are 40 children in the home].
Each person to buy one special gift for their ‘adopted’ child and for that person to personally deliver the gift to St George’s home for the child on her birthday.
I would like to just request that if you are interested to be part of this project, to send me an email in order for me to gauge interest. Unless all the children have one Guardian Angel, the project cannot go ahead. Please let me know your thoughts on this.
Second Hand clothing
Seasons are changing and we all ‘grow’ out of our clothing. Please remember us when you want to donate or throw out your clothing that you no longer use – adults and children!
Information Empowers on Facebook
Please join us on Facebook if you have a Facebook account, and please share on your wall in Facebook. The more people talking about Child Sexual Abuse and prevention, the more awareness will be created. The link is below.
Have a wonderful Valentine’s Day today and as always, much love
Norah Papanicolaou
Thursday, December 22, 2011
December 2011 Update and More!!!
Hello Everybody
I did say that Christmas was around the corner – well, it is now on our doorstep and I can’t believe that another year has gone by so very quickly! My humble apologies for only sending this out now. It has been a tremendously busy month for me working with 16 Days of Activism with Information Empowers, the Zoe Project and other projects, as well as preparing for Christmas. My last event was yesterday, and I am very pleased to say that after hitting ‘send’ on this email, I too shall take a break with my family! J
The past year has been incredibly busy both on the Zoe Project and Information Empowers fronts. We have accomplished so much – and needless to say we have done so with your help and encouragement and continued support.
As a recap, for those of you who don’t know what Information Empowers is all about.
I founded this organisation in 2001. It started as a research project about availability of information regarding child rape, child sexual abuse and molestation. We’ve found that not enough information was available to the people who desperately require it. And if there was information, it was written in academic terms and only accessible through expensive books or other purchase.
I have developed brochures in English, Afrikaans and Xhosa for adults about prevention and reporting child sexual abuse. Along with this, is information on how to teach children and what to say to them regarding this subject.
The C.I.A. Kids’ Workshop is used by victim empowerment groups and has proven to be successful with children as young as 4 years old. This workshop tells children about personal safety, why someone would want to hurt a child in this way, how they could possibly do it – and all of this is written in an age appropriate language and told through stories which do not put fear into children.
I have also written a book called the C.I.A. Children’s Workbook that deals with this subject matter. It is filled with colouring pictures designed by Tracy and stories that relate to various issues of safety. It has a diary section at the back of the book for those children who like to express themselves through writing or drawing. All of this is there to assist the child in becoming confident, informed and assertive [C.I.A. Kids].
Our work is mainly about prevention of child sexual abuse and education for children and adults.
In addition to the above, one of the most successful documents that we have developed is the Smart Kids' Kit (c) which is an Identity Profiling Kit for children to be used in the unlikely eventuality of your child going missing. We have been distributing these kits since 2008 to anyone and everyone who requires one. It is self-explanatory and easy to use. The advantage is that it also has instructions on getting DNA samples from your child and how to store it.
The Zoe Project is a project, separate from Information Empowers and it is very easy to confuse the two – as we help and assist in some cases, the same people. We work in both cases with safe houses and children’s homes. The networks of professionals who help both the Zoe Project and Information Empowers sometimes overlap.
I felt it necessary to clarify this as it is important to understand that even though we are two entirely different organisations, the work we do sometimes cross over and the people we meet and work with, are sometimes the same groups or organisations – depending on the nature of the assistance given.
Without our contributors, the Zoe Project and Information Empowers would not be able to assist as many people as we do, nor reach the wide group of people that we do.
Thank you to the following:
Arlene Holt, Anna Johansson, Annette Milner, Sandy Schuurmans, Salomy Coetzee, Audrey Hugo, Newlands Lions Group, Bob Harvey, Rotary International, Denise and Willem van Bergen, Pamela Cable, Brenda from Lakeside Mountain Men and Allan Dolby, Miranda Lang, Kerry Moller, Michael P., Theo and Jackie Knoesen, Sharon Wewege, Heather Mylne, Anonymous friends at the New Beginnings clinic in Meadowridge, Ingrid Rix, the Mount Nelson Hotel, Jenni McMinn, Jenni Arendorf from Place of Hope, Barksole Blue Route, SAPS Captain AJ Venter, SAPS Brigadier Hennie Niewhoudt, Ametje Rust and Allison Rulse and the entire team at Syntell Finance in Diep River, Ricki Fransman from Childline Western Cape, SAPS Kirstenhof Trauma Staff, SAPS Diep River Trauma Staff, SAPS Wynberg Trauma Staff, Thersia Du Toit-Smit, and to the other ‘anonymous’ friends who so willingly stick their necks out when the going gets tough…. Thank you to all our contributors. Whether your contribution has been for the Zoe Project or with helping Information Empowers, it has made a difference and it keeps doing so every single day!
There is no such thing as true altruism! We give and say that we don’t want to receive a mention but I endeavour to always mention the names of the people who give and help us. Sometimes, however it isn’t possible to have all the names of every person who gave something, and sometimes there are people who give something every month – and I leave their name off the list. Please accept my apologies for this – it is not intentional – just human error.
What is a Doula?
Doula comes from the Ancient Greek word meaning ‘female slave’. Because of the negative connotations, Greek labour supporters as well as various other global doulas instead call themselves labour companions, labour assistants or birth workers. These are usually mothers assisting new mothers in breastfeeding and newborn care, but it is mostly labour support during child birth. Our doula’s are trained and are there to assist the mothers when they give birth.
Our doulas DO NOT deliver babies as someone suggested this questioningly to me the other day. That is left up to the very well-trained hands of the nursing and medical profession. Our Doula’s are there for emotional support – when things get tough during birth or if the mother is very young and requires counseling immediately after birth. I’ve felt that I’ve had to clarify this as information can often be misread or misrepresented and we do not want to create an impression that our Doula’s deliver babies – they don’t!
Adoptions
We have been instrumental in 6 adoptions this year. From counseling the moms right at the start of their pregnancy through to working with adoption agencies, the babies have been placed in homes where they are loved, looked after and cared for. They are now safely with their adoptive parents, being loved and nurtured like any other child born to a family and given opportunities they would not have had otherwise. We have on-going counseling for the birth mothers and have contact, through the adoption agencies, when required, with the adoptive parents.
Women and young girls counseled this year…
We have counseled approximately 70 women and young girls throughout 2011. Entering counseling takes guts not only because of stigma which is still very much prevalent but because it requires recognition of a problem and it isn’t easy to ask for help. The women and girls counseled have received information about options for the various situations they find themselves in. They have been given the best advice and appropriate alternatives to rash decisions. In addition to this, they have been given information which is vital to making the right decision for that person – irrespective of religion, race, socio-economic demographics or belief. And we have supported them in each one of their individual decision.
Babies born to the clinic
There are on average, 200 babies born each month at Retreat MOU. We have just started working at Hanover Park MOU and I’ll let you know the stats as soon as I have them. We do not care if there are more girls than boys, we do care that each child is given the love and attention that it deserves as well as a fair chance in life and that the moms are supported during this time.
Second hand clothing
During the year we have halted receiving 2nd hand clothing due to various reasons. I have asked a couple of people to deliver to various safe houses and children’s homes themselves. Thank you for doing that! The 2nd hand clothing that was received has been given to those who need it most. People in Masiphumelele have benefited tremendously from this.
Comfort kits for survivors of rape
I have been asking you to put together a comfort kit for the survivors of rape [children and adults] and have been pleasantly surprised with feedback from various trauma counselors who work at SAPS stations who have indicated that the kits received have been welcomed by the victims and have made counseling the victims so much easier. You don’t know what it means to the survivor of a rape to get something like this when they go to report the rape. Thank you!
16 Days of Activism against violence against women and children.
Information Empowers has been very busy during the 16 Days of Activism against violence against women and children, and it has been satisfying for me personally to see that awareness changes attitudes. We have distributed the Smart Kids’ Kits © to so many people and it is a very useful document to use in case your child goes missing. In addition to this, I have attended a number of events creating awareness of child sexual abuse and also educating about prevention.
St George’s Haven – Ametje Rust and Syntell Finance Division
One of the places that I attended was St George’s Haven in Wynberg and this year, with the help of Ametje Rust and her team at Syntell, the 30 girls who live there, aged 3 to 15, and were treated by Syntell. They were given a box each with toiletries and towels, and other amazing goodies, as well as a special item of comfort for each individual girl to suit their age. Ametje is an inspiring woman who has a huge heart, and working with her and her team for the 2nd year now, I have learnt that her enthusiasm about life and her philosophy on giving has definitely rubbed off on each of the members of staff who work with her. Ametje knows and has seen first hand what a difference they’re making. Thank you Ametje!
We were hosted at St Georges Haven by Capt Andre Venter from Wynberg SAPS and the 30 girls performed their art for us – from poetry, to singing and dance, drawings and each one showing us their individual talent. The life skills that these girls have acquired through their various life experiences are things that most adults I know aren’t even aware of exists. They are awesome girls with bright futures ahead of them. Their determination to overcome situations is inspiring.
Graeme Cairns sent feedback that the girls are still talking about their special day with us, and needless to say, we think of each of them often too.
Lakeside Mountain Men – Brenda and Allan Dolby
Brenda contacted me during the year after receiving my newsletter and they have just blown us away with their amazing contribution of baby grows, clothes and items for the mom packs. They have visited the Retreat MOU with Tracey and I just wanted to say thank you to Brenda and the entire team at Lakeside Mountain men who have decided to assist us this year with the Zoe Project.
Beanies, beanies, beanies…..
Thank you for the many beanies we have and are still receiving. We use beanies for the new-born babies. Unfortunately, and also very funnily, we have received beanies that I can wear! What we’ve decided to do with the larger beanies is to give them to amongst other places, a home in Saldanha Bay, CPOA Old Aged Home in Sea Point as well as to children in Masiphumelele. May I respectfully ask that if you want to knit beanies, please ensure that it would fit a new-born baby’s head! [J]
Pass on the emails
Word-of-mouth is our biggest advertisement. Please continue to send the emails out to your friends, and if they would like to be on our list of people, let me know in comments below.
Hanover Park MOU
It is with great excitement that I can report that we are now working at Hanover Park MOU too. It is difficult at times with the gang-violence, but so far we have been safe. We have included Hanover Park MOU in our Annual Special Christmas Babies and Moms’ packs. We have secured 10 mom packs and 10 baby packs for Christmas day, in addition to the 10 that we give to them for the month.
The staff has come back to us to say that they are encouraged to know that so many people care and that we are already making a difference to their work and to the lives of their patients. Bob Harvey through Rotary International donated 2 wheelchairs during the year, one of which has gone to Hanover Park. The other day, an ambulance staff member commented that the wheelchair donated has made such a difference to their work – delivering patients to the clinic from the ambulance as well as being able to do so safer. Thank you so much, Bob and Rotary, we salute you!
Retreat MOU
Again, we have arranged that our Special Christmas Babies each receive a baby and mom’s pack. Tracey arranged a special day for the staff where they were each handed a gift. Thank you Graeme for wrapping each present with such love and precision! They all enjoyed the day and thank you to Yolanda for baking those scrumptious cupcakes for the event.
The Annual Six-a-side Soccer day
This happened in October and not in November as I earlier reported. It was well attended by Zoe Staff as well as teams from the Retreat MOU with their families. The day turned out great. Thank you to Barksole in the Blue Route for giving us 6 medals for the winning team as well as for doing free engraving on the trophies.
Masiphumelele
Regina is doing a wonderful job. Some of the fresh fruit and vegetables that we receive each Friday go to Regina who then distributes it to the children whose families need it most. Along with the second hand clothing, towels and blankets that we receive, we know that each item is given with love and that each family receiving something does so because they are in dire straits. Keep up the good work, Regina!
Old clients
We are happy to say that we are still in contact with most of the women that we have counseled. The mother of Zoe [the girl this project was named after] still has contact with Tracey. She is doing very well and is making a success of her and her daughter’s life. It is a tremendous encouragement to see that people can turn their lives around for the better.
Desperately needed for next year
I know this is supposed to be the latest news and update, but I would also like to use this as a reminder of the items that we desperately require for 2012.
Dry Goods Pantry – 2 minute noodles, rice, pasta, tinned food of all kinds, cup-a-soup and powdered milk, coffee, tea and sugar.
Mom packs – sanitary pads, medium sized panties, toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, a snack to eat whilst in labour, a small box juice to drink whilst in labour. Please note that the sanitary pads MUST BE MATERNITY PADS. The ordinary sanitary pads are not absorbent enough.
Baby packs – all newborn size and NEW items, please. Baby grows, vests, baby toiletries [not powder or ear buds], receiving blanket, fleecy blanket, booties, knitted jersey and small toy.
Thank you everybody for your messages of support, your emails, your phone calls, the time you have spent helping us to help others. Thank you for each stitch that you’ve knitted, sewn or crocheted, thank you for going to the shops and buying items for our moms and babies, thank you, thank you, thank you!
May your festive season be one where the only regret is that you’ve had too much pudding. May 2012 bring success and love and happiness your way.
Have a wonderful time and we’ll talk again next year.
All my love, as always
Norah Papanicolaou
Information Empowers!
Fighting the war against child sexual abuse because every child matters
http://www.informationempowers.org.za/
and for the Zoe Project
I did say that Christmas was around the corner – well, it is now on our doorstep and I can’t believe that another year has gone by so very quickly! My humble apologies for only sending this out now. It has been a tremendously busy month for me working with 16 Days of Activism with Information Empowers, the Zoe Project and other projects, as well as preparing for Christmas. My last event was yesterday, and I am very pleased to say that after hitting ‘send’ on this email, I too shall take a break with my family! J
The past year has been incredibly busy both on the Zoe Project and Information Empowers fronts. We have accomplished so much – and needless to say we have done so with your help and encouragement and continued support.
As a recap, for those of you who don’t know what Information Empowers is all about.
I founded this organisation in 2001. It started as a research project about availability of information regarding child rape, child sexual abuse and molestation. We’ve found that not enough information was available to the people who desperately require it. And if there was information, it was written in academic terms and only accessible through expensive books or other purchase.
I have developed brochures in English, Afrikaans and Xhosa for adults about prevention and reporting child sexual abuse. Along with this, is information on how to teach children and what to say to them regarding this subject.
The C.I.A. Kids’ Workshop is used by victim empowerment groups and has proven to be successful with children as young as 4 years old. This workshop tells children about personal safety, why someone would want to hurt a child in this way, how they could possibly do it – and all of this is written in an age appropriate language and told through stories which do not put fear into children.
I have also written a book called the C.I.A. Children’s Workbook that deals with this subject matter. It is filled with colouring pictures designed by Tracy and stories that relate to various issues of safety. It has a diary section at the back of the book for those children who like to express themselves through writing or drawing. All of this is there to assist the child in becoming confident, informed and assertive [C.I.A. Kids].
Our work is mainly about prevention of child sexual abuse and education for children and adults.
In addition to the above, one of the most successful documents that we have developed is the Smart Kids' Kit (c) which is an Identity Profiling Kit for children to be used in the unlikely eventuality of your child going missing. We have been distributing these kits since 2008 to anyone and everyone who requires one. It is self-explanatory and easy to use. The advantage is that it also has instructions on getting DNA samples from your child and how to store it.
The Zoe Project is a project, separate from Information Empowers and it is very easy to confuse the two – as we help and assist in some cases, the same people. We work in both cases with safe houses and children’s homes. The networks of professionals who help both the Zoe Project and Information Empowers sometimes overlap.
I felt it necessary to clarify this as it is important to understand that even though we are two entirely different organisations, the work we do sometimes cross over and the people we meet and work with, are sometimes the same groups or organisations – depending on the nature of the assistance given.
Without our contributors, the Zoe Project and Information Empowers would not be able to assist as many people as we do, nor reach the wide group of people that we do.
Thank you to the following:
Arlene Holt, Anna Johansson, Annette Milner, Sandy Schuurmans, Salomy Coetzee, Audrey Hugo, Newlands Lions Group, Bob Harvey, Rotary International, Denise and Willem van Bergen, Pamela Cable, Brenda from Lakeside Mountain Men and Allan Dolby, Miranda Lang, Kerry Moller, Michael P., Theo and Jackie Knoesen, Sharon Wewege, Heather Mylne, Anonymous friends at the New Beginnings clinic in Meadowridge, Ingrid Rix, the Mount Nelson Hotel, Jenni McMinn, Jenni Arendorf from Place of Hope, Barksole Blue Route, SAPS Captain AJ Venter, SAPS Brigadier Hennie Niewhoudt, Ametje Rust and Allison Rulse and the entire team at Syntell Finance in Diep River, Ricki Fransman from Childline Western Cape, SAPS Kirstenhof Trauma Staff, SAPS Diep River Trauma Staff, SAPS Wynberg Trauma Staff, Thersia Du Toit-Smit, and to the other ‘anonymous’ friends who so willingly stick their necks out when the going gets tough…. Thank you to all our contributors. Whether your contribution has been for the Zoe Project or with helping Information Empowers, it has made a difference and it keeps doing so every single day!
There is no such thing as true altruism! We give and say that we don’t want to receive a mention but I endeavour to always mention the names of the people who give and help us. Sometimes, however it isn’t possible to have all the names of every person who gave something, and sometimes there are people who give something every month – and I leave their name off the list. Please accept my apologies for this – it is not intentional – just human error.
What is a Doula?
Doula comes from the Ancient Greek word meaning ‘female slave’. Because of the negative connotations, Greek labour supporters as well as various other global doulas instead call themselves labour companions, labour assistants or birth workers. These are usually mothers assisting new mothers in breastfeeding and newborn care, but it is mostly labour support during child birth. Our doula’s are trained and are there to assist the mothers when they give birth.
Our doulas DO NOT deliver babies as someone suggested this questioningly to me the other day. That is left up to the very well-trained hands of the nursing and medical profession. Our Doula’s are there for emotional support – when things get tough during birth or if the mother is very young and requires counseling immediately after birth. I’ve felt that I’ve had to clarify this as information can often be misread or misrepresented and we do not want to create an impression that our Doula’s deliver babies – they don’t!
Adoptions
We have been instrumental in 6 adoptions this year. From counseling the moms right at the start of their pregnancy through to working with adoption agencies, the babies have been placed in homes where they are loved, looked after and cared for. They are now safely with their adoptive parents, being loved and nurtured like any other child born to a family and given opportunities they would not have had otherwise. We have on-going counseling for the birth mothers and have contact, through the adoption agencies, when required, with the adoptive parents.
Women and young girls counseled this year…
We have counseled approximately 70 women and young girls throughout 2011. Entering counseling takes guts not only because of stigma which is still very much prevalent but because it requires recognition of a problem and it isn’t easy to ask for help. The women and girls counseled have received information about options for the various situations they find themselves in. They have been given the best advice and appropriate alternatives to rash decisions. In addition to this, they have been given information which is vital to making the right decision for that person – irrespective of religion, race, socio-economic demographics or belief. And we have supported them in each one of their individual decision.
Babies born to the clinic
There are on average, 200 babies born each month at Retreat MOU. We have just started working at Hanover Park MOU and I’ll let you know the stats as soon as I have them. We do not care if there are more girls than boys, we do care that each child is given the love and attention that it deserves as well as a fair chance in life and that the moms are supported during this time.
Second hand clothing
During the year we have halted receiving 2nd hand clothing due to various reasons. I have asked a couple of people to deliver to various safe houses and children’s homes themselves. Thank you for doing that! The 2nd hand clothing that was received has been given to those who need it most. People in Masiphumelele have benefited tremendously from this.
Comfort kits for survivors of rape
I have been asking you to put together a comfort kit for the survivors of rape [children and adults] and have been pleasantly surprised with feedback from various trauma counselors who work at SAPS stations who have indicated that the kits received have been welcomed by the victims and have made counseling the victims so much easier. You don’t know what it means to the survivor of a rape to get something like this when they go to report the rape. Thank you!
16 Days of Activism against violence against women and children.
Information Empowers has been very busy during the 16 Days of Activism against violence against women and children, and it has been satisfying for me personally to see that awareness changes attitudes. We have distributed the Smart Kids’ Kits © to so many people and it is a very useful document to use in case your child goes missing. In addition to this, I have attended a number of events creating awareness of child sexual abuse and also educating about prevention.
St George’s Haven – Ametje Rust and Syntell Finance Division
One of the places that I attended was St George’s Haven in Wynberg and this year, with the help of Ametje Rust and her team at Syntell, the 30 girls who live there, aged 3 to 15, and were treated by Syntell. They were given a box each with toiletries and towels, and other amazing goodies, as well as a special item of comfort for each individual girl to suit their age. Ametje is an inspiring woman who has a huge heart, and working with her and her team for the 2nd year now, I have learnt that her enthusiasm about life and her philosophy on giving has definitely rubbed off on each of the members of staff who work with her. Ametje knows and has seen first hand what a difference they’re making. Thank you Ametje!
We were hosted at St Georges Haven by Capt Andre Venter from Wynberg SAPS and the 30 girls performed their art for us – from poetry, to singing and dance, drawings and each one showing us their individual talent. The life skills that these girls have acquired through their various life experiences are things that most adults I know aren’t even aware of exists. They are awesome girls with bright futures ahead of them. Their determination to overcome situations is inspiring.
Graeme Cairns sent feedback that the girls are still talking about their special day with us, and needless to say, we think of each of them often too.
Lakeside Mountain Men – Brenda and Allan Dolby
Brenda contacted me during the year after receiving my newsletter and they have just blown us away with their amazing contribution of baby grows, clothes and items for the mom packs. They have visited the Retreat MOU with Tracey and I just wanted to say thank you to Brenda and the entire team at Lakeside Mountain men who have decided to assist us this year with the Zoe Project.
Beanies, beanies, beanies…..
Thank you for the many beanies we have and are still receiving. We use beanies for the new-born babies. Unfortunately, and also very funnily, we have received beanies that I can wear! What we’ve decided to do with the larger beanies is to give them to amongst other places, a home in Saldanha Bay, CPOA Old Aged Home in Sea Point as well as to children in Masiphumelele. May I respectfully ask that if you want to knit beanies, please ensure that it would fit a new-born baby’s head! [J]
Pass on the emails
Word-of-mouth is our biggest advertisement. Please continue to send the emails out to your friends, and if they would like to be on our list of people, let me know in comments below.
Hanover Park MOU
It is with great excitement that I can report that we are now working at Hanover Park MOU too. It is difficult at times with the gang-violence, but so far we have been safe. We have included Hanover Park MOU in our Annual Special Christmas Babies and Moms’ packs. We have secured 10 mom packs and 10 baby packs for Christmas day, in addition to the 10 that we give to them for the month.
The staff has come back to us to say that they are encouraged to know that so many people care and that we are already making a difference to their work and to the lives of their patients. Bob Harvey through Rotary International donated 2 wheelchairs during the year, one of which has gone to Hanover Park. The other day, an ambulance staff member commented that the wheelchair donated has made such a difference to their work – delivering patients to the clinic from the ambulance as well as being able to do so safer. Thank you so much, Bob and Rotary, we salute you!
Retreat MOU
Again, we have arranged that our Special Christmas Babies each receive a baby and mom’s pack. Tracey arranged a special day for the staff where they were each handed a gift. Thank you Graeme for wrapping each present with such love and precision! They all enjoyed the day and thank you to Yolanda for baking those scrumptious cupcakes for the event.
The Annual Six-a-side Soccer day
This happened in October and not in November as I earlier reported. It was well attended by Zoe Staff as well as teams from the Retreat MOU with their families. The day turned out great. Thank you to Barksole in the Blue Route for giving us 6 medals for the winning team as well as for doing free engraving on the trophies.
Masiphumelele
Regina is doing a wonderful job. Some of the fresh fruit and vegetables that we receive each Friday go to Regina who then distributes it to the children whose families need it most. Along with the second hand clothing, towels and blankets that we receive, we know that each item is given with love and that each family receiving something does so because they are in dire straits. Keep up the good work, Regina!
Old clients
We are happy to say that we are still in contact with most of the women that we have counseled. The mother of Zoe [the girl this project was named after] still has contact with Tracey. She is doing very well and is making a success of her and her daughter’s life. It is a tremendous encouragement to see that people can turn their lives around for the better.
Desperately needed for next year
I know this is supposed to be the latest news and update, but I would also like to use this as a reminder of the items that we desperately require for 2012.
Dry Goods Pantry – 2 minute noodles, rice, pasta, tinned food of all kinds, cup-a-soup and powdered milk, coffee, tea and sugar.
Mom packs – sanitary pads, medium sized panties, toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, a snack to eat whilst in labour, a small box juice to drink whilst in labour. Please note that the sanitary pads MUST BE MATERNITY PADS. The ordinary sanitary pads are not absorbent enough.
Baby packs – all newborn size and NEW items, please. Baby grows, vests, baby toiletries [not powder or ear buds], receiving blanket, fleecy blanket, booties, knitted jersey and small toy.
Thank you everybody for your messages of support, your emails, your phone calls, the time you have spent helping us to help others. Thank you for each stitch that you’ve knitted, sewn or crocheted, thank you for going to the shops and buying items for our moms and babies, thank you, thank you, thank you!
May your festive season be one where the only regret is that you’ve had too much pudding. May 2012 bring success and love and happiness your way.
Have a wonderful time and we’ll talk again next year.
All my love, as always
Norah Papanicolaou
Information Empowers!
Fighting the war against child sexual abuse because every child matters
http://www.informationempowers.org.za/
and for the Zoe Project
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
October 2011 Update - Zoe Project
Hello Everybody
It has been a very busy couple of months and we are heading into silly season… Christmas is upon us and so are school holidays.
I can’t wait to spend this special time with my family and friends!
Thank you to the following contributors:
Kerry Moller, Pamela Cable, Sandy Schuurmans, Michael P., Salomy Coetzee, Bob Harvey, Nicki, Mia, Sonja Stock and their friends Monique and Sarah-Jane, Brenda and her team from Mountain Men, Hershel School, Annette Muller, Denise and Willem van Bergen, Sharon Wewege, Heather Mylne and our friends at the New Beginnings Clinic, and Ingrid Rix, Bob Harvey, Rotary International and Rene Sale.
Nicki Stock ran a 2-day fun workshop with her daughters, Mia and Sonja and their 2 friends, Monique and Sarah-Jane during the last school holidays. They made one quilt based on the quilts that their grandmother had made for us and for firefighters in the UK. The quilt was given to a young mom who opted to give her baby up for adoption. It was special in that, the girls had put their names and a message of love on the back of the quilt. That baby went to his new home with this quilt and hopefully one day, will know that his entry into life was one of and one of being given better opportunities through the adoption love.
The girls from Herschel School went on a tour of Retreat maternity clinic. They brought with them hand-made blankets, baby shoes and many beautiful items for the mom and baby packs. Tracey spoke at the school informing the girls of the Zoe Project and also about teenage pregnancies. This inspired them to make a special contribution and to visit the clinic. They saw for themselves where the babies are born and how the clinic is run and left knowing more about what the Zoe Project is all about.
Donation of 2 Wheelchairs by Rotary International
Two wheelchairs were donated by Rotary International via Bob Harvey. One each was given to Retreat Maternity and Hanover Park Maternity Clinics. The staff and patients are very grateful for this as it makes giving birth so much easier when you're mobile...
The Zoe Project at Hanover Park
For the last couple of months we have been working with the team at Hanover Park Maternity Clinic. We are fortunate in that we have had our first ‘hand-over’ of mom and baby packs at the clinic. As with Retreat Maternity, our main focus is counseling and we will continue with the ethos of the Zoe Project at both Retreat and Hanover Park Clinics. As can be imagined, we are very excited about this opportunity to help more young moms and families. It is especially difficult working in this area currently due to all the gang-fighting and shootings happening. We trust that our endeavours will be fruitful and help those who most need it.
Second hand clothing and linen items:
The items in the mom and baby packs are only brand new items. As I have mentioned in the past, we work with safe houses and baby houses who help some of our ladies from domestic abusive situations and help with adoptions of our babies. The items of second hand clothing and linen, etc is given to them to help start up these women and children who have nothing when they leave these domestic violent situations. Any 2nd hand and used clothing that we receive, along with bedding, curtains and other linen is therefore given to them.
In addition to this, we have a person working in Masiphumelele, assisting families who have nothing or have lost everything. Some of our items go there too. The need is great. And it is difficult to help absolutely everybody, but we remain focused and ensure that all goods go to those who need it most.
Annual Soccer Day:
For as long as I can remember, the Zoe Project has had a Soccer Day for families and children as a fundraiser. Our soccer day will happen at the end of November and entry is per person or team. The money raised goes to the Zoe Project for shortfall of items we may have during the year. Please contact me should you be interested in entering a team.
16 Days of Activism:
Many of the women we work with are victims of domestic violence. In addition to this, as you know Information Empowers! is my organisation educating and informing adults and children about child sexual abuse. 16 Days of Activism starts on Friday, 25th November 2011 and ends on 10th December which is also international AIDS awareness day. Please look out for events to support during this time.
Comfort Kits for victims of Rape:
Again, I would like to encourage you to prepare [even if it is just one] comfort kit for victims of rape and sexual abuse and hand them to your closest SAPS Trauma room. These kits consisting of deodorant, sanitary pads, panties and underwear [for adults and children], along with toothpaste and a toothbrush and something like a colouringbook and pencils is a great comfort especially for a child who has to go through the secondary trauma of reporting the abuse.
I wish you all well and would like to thank you again for your ongoing support and encouragement.
As always, lots of love
Norah Papanicolaou
http://www.informationempowers.org.za/
and for the Zoe Project
It has been a very busy couple of months and we are heading into silly season… Christmas is upon us and so are school holidays.
I can’t wait to spend this special time with my family and friends!
Thank you to the following contributors:
Kerry Moller, Pamela Cable, Sandy Schuurmans, Michael P., Salomy Coetzee, Bob Harvey, Nicki, Mia, Sonja Stock and their friends Monique and Sarah-Jane, Brenda and her team from Mountain Men, Hershel School, Annette Muller, Denise and Willem van Bergen, Sharon Wewege, Heather Mylne and our friends at the New Beginnings Clinic, and Ingrid Rix, Bob Harvey, Rotary International and Rene Sale.
Nicki Stock ran a 2-day fun workshop with her daughters, Mia and Sonja and their 2 friends, Monique and Sarah-Jane during the last school holidays. They made one quilt based on the quilts that their grandmother had made for us and for firefighters in the UK. The quilt was given to a young mom who opted to give her baby up for adoption. It was special in that, the girls had put their names and a message of love on the back of the quilt. That baby went to his new home with this quilt and hopefully one day, will know that his entry into life was one of and one of being given better opportunities through the adoption love.
The girls from Herschel School went on a tour of Retreat maternity clinic. They brought with them hand-made blankets, baby shoes and many beautiful items for the mom and baby packs. Tracey spoke at the school informing the girls of the Zoe Project and also about teenage pregnancies. This inspired them to make a special contribution and to visit the clinic. They saw for themselves where the babies are born and how the clinic is run and left knowing more about what the Zoe Project is all about.
Donation of 2 Wheelchairs by Rotary International
Two wheelchairs were donated by Rotary International via Bob Harvey. One each was given to Retreat Maternity and Hanover Park Maternity Clinics. The staff and patients are very grateful for this as it makes giving birth so much easier when you're mobile...
The Zoe Project at Hanover Park
For the last couple of months we have been working with the team at Hanover Park Maternity Clinic. We are fortunate in that we have had our first ‘hand-over’ of mom and baby packs at the clinic. As with Retreat Maternity, our main focus is counseling and we will continue with the ethos of the Zoe Project at both Retreat and Hanover Park Clinics. As can be imagined, we are very excited about this opportunity to help more young moms and families. It is especially difficult working in this area currently due to all the gang-fighting and shootings happening. We trust that our endeavours will be fruitful and help those who most need it.
Second hand clothing and linen items:
The items in the mom and baby packs are only brand new items. As I have mentioned in the past, we work with safe houses and baby houses who help some of our ladies from domestic abusive situations and help with adoptions of our babies. The items of second hand clothing and linen, etc is given to them to help start up these women and children who have nothing when they leave these domestic violent situations. Any 2nd hand and used clothing that we receive, along with bedding, curtains and other linen is therefore given to them.
In addition to this, we have a person working in Masiphumelele, assisting families who have nothing or have lost everything. Some of our items go there too. The need is great. And it is difficult to help absolutely everybody, but we remain focused and ensure that all goods go to those who need it most.
Annual Soccer Day:
For as long as I can remember, the Zoe Project has had a Soccer Day for families and children as a fundraiser. Our soccer day will happen at the end of November and entry is per person or team. The money raised goes to the Zoe Project for shortfall of items we may have during the year. Please contact me should you be interested in entering a team.
16 Days of Activism:
Many of the women we work with are victims of domestic violence. In addition to this, as you know Information Empowers! is my organisation educating and informing adults and children about child sexual abuse. 16 Days of Activism starts on Friday, 25th November 2011 and ends on 10th December which is also international AIDS awareness day. Please look out for events to support during this time.
Comfort Kits for victims of Rape:
Again, I would like to encourage you to prepare [even if it is just one] comfort kit for victims of rape and sexual abuse and hand them to your closest SAPS Trauma room. These kits consisting of deodorant, sanitary pads, panties and underwear [for adults and children], along with toothpaste and a toothbrush and something like a colouringbook and pencils is a great comfort especially for a child who has to go through the secondary trauma of reporting the abuse.
I wish you all well and would like to thank you again for your ongoing support and encouragement.
As always, lots of love
Norah Papanicolaou
http://www.informationempowers.org.za/
and for the Zoe Project
Friday, August 12, 2011
The Zoe Project Update June - July 2011
Hello Everybody
Thank you to everybody for the messages of well-wishes since our last newsletter. While I may not have sent out an email appealing for items, we have had many people contact us with very generous donations. Each item received, no matter how big or small has been put to use and is so much appreciated. Thank you to the following contributors:
Dr Lara Smith, Bronwyn Hopwood, Marlene Helfrecht, Rene Grimmbacher, Michael P., Arlene Johansson, Anna Johansson, Willem and Denise van Bergen, Sharon Wewege, Heather Mylne, Sandy Schuurmans, Annette Milner, Pam Cable, Diane Maw, Sue Lotouf, Ronelle Van Rooyen, Jenne McIver, Gillian Everdij, Fiona Boyd, Janine Taylor, Gillian Key, Leisha Davies, Shelly Hindmarch [JDI], Tracy Le Roux [JDI], Genevieve Le Cordeur, Julie Bird, Deanne Gordon, The Mount Nelson Hotel, Nompilo Ndlovo from the Wheat Trust, Newlands Lions, Rene Sale, Val Turner, Constantia Garden Club, Gary Kruger from Pick ‘n Pay Steenberg, Heather Booysen and pupils from Claddagh dance Studio, Christel Swart, Dr Leaver and our Anonymous friends from the New Beginnings clinic.To Pam Cable and your group of friends – thank you for the lovely knitted items. Again, they are treasured and especially since they’re hand-made by you.
To Annette Milner and the Pregnancy Crises Centre in Muizenberg who has had to close down recently, thank you for sharing with us. You know the work we do and just how much each bit is appreciated.
Nompilo Ndlove from the Wheat Trust – thank you for the toiletries and baby soft toys.
The Lions Club of Newlands, Val Turner – we have been receiving fresh food items from them the last 3 weeks and the fresh vegetables are used in our soups.
Rene Sale and friends – thanks for the washed and ironed and sorted clothing.
Constantia Garden Club for your donation of baby grows.
Gary Kruger from Pick ‘n Pay Steenberg – thank you for the boxes of food and toiletries.
Heather Booysen and pupils from the Claddagh Dance Studio for the donation of blankets, and Christel Swart for the huge donation of baby goods.
As you know, it is not possible for me to write individual thank you notes to every contributor and this newsletter which is sent far and wide, is actually a tribute and a thank you to all our contributors as well as an update. This newsletter has singled out a few of our contributors but every single contribution is valued by us and every single person or group who has contributed, is appreciated.
Thank you all for making a difference in the lives of so many people!
News from the clinic:
We have had 3 adoptions in the last month and we’re happy to say that both the biological moms, babies and adoptive parents are doing very well.Babies Born:
I do not have a figure of babies born for the last 2 months. The average amount of births is ± 200 babies per month with usually boys outnumbering girls.Woman’s Day:
We have just celebrated Woman’s Day on the 9th August. Women are the people who drive the world and make things happen. Someone once told me about the ‘international sisterhood’ – not a registered organisation, but rather a recognition, internationally of the difficulties women face but also the strength they have of overcoming most difficulties; and of helping one another. I guess you are all part of this recognised international sisterhood!Second hand clothing and linen items:
The items in the mom and baby packs are only brand new items. As I have mentioned in the past, we work with safe houses and baby houses who help some of our ladies from domestic abusive situations and help with adoptions of our babies. The items of second hand clothing and linen, etc is given to them to help start up these women and children who have nothing when they leave these domestic violent situations. Any 2nd hand and used clothing that we receive, along with bedding, curtains and other linen is therefore given to them. In addition to this, we have a person working in Masiphumelele, assisting families who have nothing or have lost everything. Some of our items go there too.The need is great. And it is difficult to help absolutely everybody, but we remain focused and ensure that all goods go to those who need it most.
Please feel free to contact me to collect for the Zoe Project, or should you have any queries, please email me.
As always, lots of love
Norah PapanicolaouThursday, August 11, 2011
The Zoe Project Update May - June 2011
Hi Everybody
Since my last newsletter, much has happened on the Zoe Project.
I would like to start off by saying that we have completed our Section 21 registration forms and await our registration number!
We have had our first executive meeting and our members and executive team are:
Tracey Aitken, Norah Papanicolaou, Marian Clemitson, Claire Adams and members are Penny Beer, Yolanda Parry, Pam Cuff, Charles Daniels and June Leonard.
We will continue to fulfill the vision and goals of the Zoe Project as before and I trust with all the documentation and duties in place will be more effective.
Thank you to the following contributors:
Arlene Johansson, Nicki Stock, Mary Johnson, Sharon Wewege, Heather Mylne, Michael P., Anna Johansson, Willem and Denise van Bergen, Annette Milner, Heather Booysen and the pupils from the Claddagh dance studio, Christel Swart, and our many anonymous friends from the New Beginnings Baby Clinic in Meadowridge.Babies born in April
Girls 111 and boys, 75. There were 16 babies born to moms who are 18 years old and under.Products for the mom and baby packs
We are in desperate need of all the items for mom packs and for the baby packs we just don’t have any baby grows, vests or receiving blankets. These items make up the 20 of each mom and baby packs that we have committed to give at the clinic each month. Our mom and baby packs go only to the most needy moms.Products for the pantry
We are still receiving out 40 punnets of soup each month and we continue to buy bread, jam and peanut butter to fill the fresh items. We have only received a small amount of dry goods [2minute noodles, soups, pasta and rice and tinned food] and these items were used within the first week of delivery. We desperately would like to continue with our dry goods pantry, but can only do so with your continued support.Desperate Appeal
The house of 2 children and their parents burnt down last week. They are situated in Hout Bay and attend a local primary school in the Southern Suburbs. They lost everything and I’m assisting the school where they attend in attaining clothing, bedding and shoes for all 4 people of this family. The most desperate items required are materials for a roof over their heads. I would like to ask if anyone out there can help with rebuilding these people’s lives. Please contact me at email address to discuss how you can help.We need the following building materials:
Zinc 10” [any quantity – no amount is too little]
Door frames x 3
Door handles x 3
Any other items required with which to build a house
I also have a list of clothing and shoe sizes – please let me know if you’d like a copy.
I hope to hear from all of you soon and I wish you much love
As always
Norah Papanicolaou
The Zoe Project Update March and April 2011
Hello Everybody
Thank you for being patient with me with regard to our email updates. I will be sending out an email every 2 months from now on.Thank you to our contributors:
Ingrid Rix, Arlene Johansson, Anna Johansson, Denise and Willem van Bergen, Sharon Wewege and Heather Milne and our anonymous friends at New Beginnings Clinic.Dry goods pantry:
We have not received food for the dry goods pantry in the last 3 months and it has been sorely missed by all the moms at the clinic. We have been buying bread and bare necessities every week to fill in the little bit of food [one dry Provita and a cup of tea a day] that the government gives to feed the moms.Mom and Baby packs:
We are still in desperate need of all the items for the mom and baby packs. Please let me know if you can assist here. We can make a small difference, and we do. We will continue to work at the Retreat maternity clinic as we have in the past. At present I am sure everyone is feeling the pinch and we are confident that things for our moms and babies will pick up.
Congratulations to Yolanda Parry:
Yolanda was nominated and won the “Rotary Woman of the Year 2011 award” for her work done at the clinic. Yolanda has been with us for a year now and her work every Tuesday is so valuable to the moms who come into contact with her during labour and afterwards. Congratulations, Yolanda! You deserve the accolade.Making a personal difference:
The election on the 18th May is so close and I hope you have all registered to vote and that you will make your vote count. Only by voting can one have a say in how the government is run and enforce small changes in the country.I hope you have all had a wonderful Easter and holiday week. Back to work tomorrow and back to school for the children.
Stay safe and love as always,
Norah Papanicolaou
Thursday, February 3, 2011
The Zoe Project Update January 2011
Hello Everybody
What a wonderful break December has been! It was time to reconnect with family and friends and find time for ourselves.
Every New Year signifies new beginnings but unlike resolutions that are fleeting and impulsive, fresh ideas are inspired, planned and organised; hopefully to come into fruition with hard work and co-operation.
It is in the follow-through and committing to these plans and projects that we find success.
I hope you’ve all had a wonderful break and thank you to those who have replied during December and to my earlier email this week.
Things have been a little slow during the last two months in terms of contributors. Many people have emailed and phoned offering assistance to help but as I said earlier, it is in the commitment and follow-through that we see the plans realized.
I am positive about 2011 and realize that many people are still trying to get into the swing of new schedules [as I am] but believe that our contributors’ list will grow in order for us to assist those who are in dire need.
Thank you to the following contributors:
Arlene Johansson, Dr Lara Smith, Jane and Sebastian Dunn, Donna C., Sandy Schuurman, Rene Grimmbacher, Michael P., Sevi Avondo, Anna Johansson, Lesley Edkins, Willem and Denise van Bergen and our anonymous friends at Monterey Pre-Primary School.
A very special thank you to Sharon Wewege and Heather Mylne from the New Beginnings Baby Clinic, Meadowridge…
I received a phone call in December from Sharon to ask if I would give a talk at their Christmas lunch organised for approximately 40 new moms. When I agreed and arrived at the clinic, I was really overwhelmed by what these two women had organised. They arranged a lunch with a talk for these new moms and asked them to contribute to the Zoe Project’s mom and baby packs and dry goods pantry instead of buying one another gifts.
In addition to this, they could also donate money that would be used to buy a wheelchair for a very special 20 month old boy with severe health difficulties. Thankfully and wonderfully, the wheelchair was bought the following week [cost is approximately R20 000]! Wow, Sharon and Heather! The two of you are amazing and will be so blessed.
The Zoe Project received beautiful items of clothing and nappies for the baby packs and products for the mom packs, and tinned food items for the dry goods pantry.
Thank you for your continued support, your kindness and encouragement and your generosity of spirit.
Another very special thank you to Ametjie Rust and the Finance Department of Syntell (Pty) Ltd: Ametje Rust and her team members, Karen Davies, Janine Laubscher, Tanya Gonsalves, Thabisa Mendes, Kevin Eddy, Trichelle Green-Thompson, Deidre Claasen, Samantha Henson, Jamiela Abdulahman, Natalie Heuvel, Bridget Johnson, Kashiefa Solomons, Abigail Richards, Denise Kruger, Nolene Williams, Deshni Naidoo, Nzwakhele Mkhize, and Allison Rulse.
Allison called me in August to arrange something special for their team building event. They decided to contribute mom and baby packs for the Zoe Project’s Christmas Day babies.
To say that I was overwhelmed when I collected 24 x A4 paper BOXES of brand new, beautiful, carefully considered and packed and wrapped boxes from them, would be an understatement. I was in tears!
Thank you, thank you and thank you again – you made Christmas [and New Years Day] moms and babies feel very appreciated and loved.
I know through talking to Allison Rulse who co-ordinated everything, that each team member mentioned above was equally touched by knowing that these items would go to those who need it so badly. We wish you and your team success in your endeavours and know that you’ve been blessed by this experience too.
I have a couple of photographs that I will put on the blog where we have permission from the moms to publish them. It isn’t always easy or permitted to publish photos of moms and babies due to privacy issues.
Email updates:
I have requested before that you should let me know if you would like to continue receiving our email updates. Please let me know as I have only heard from a few people. If you do not respond, I will keep you on the mailing list.
Also, please continue to forward these updates to your friends and family and colleagues. It helps in many ways!
The year ahead for us in short:
Counseling and the most important functions of the Zoe Project will continue as always.
We are going to concentrate on the mom and baby packs and the dry goods pantry. We would love to be able to give more mom and baby packs to more people but we can only do that if we have enough donations.
We are trying to add to the food that the government allows for moms who give birth at the clinic. The food provided for by the state is ONE DRY PROVITA AND A CUP OF SOUP PER DAY! That is the only meal. And as many of you know, this is not enough nourishment for a new mom who is breastfeeding a baby.
Many moms stay behind as Kangaroo moms [sometimes for 10 to 12 days] as they cannot leave the clinic due to regulation and fear of abandonment. Unless their families bring them food [which doesn’t happen] they only eat what the state and we provide.
Your contributions assist us to provide much needed nutrition.
This year I will not be collecting 2nd hand clothing or items of linen. Last year we had a really good response and I know that many of you prefer to give these items to us because you know that they are going to places of need. Unfortunately, it is extremely time consuming to sort these items and I do not have the capacity at present to do this due to other commitments and obligations with work.
If you do have items that you would like to donate, take them to your nearest home for children or place of safety for women and children; alternatively, [believe it or not] your Ward Councillor will know of people in need either in your area or another area.
I would like to say thank you again and in anticipation for your continued support in the next year. I look forward to seeing all of you and hearing your news.
Please continue to pass on our notices and continue to email or phone me should you have any questions.
Happy February everyone and lots of love
What a wonderful break December has been! It was time to reconnect with family and friends and find time for ourselves.
Every New Year signifies new beginnings but unlike resolutions that are fleeting and impulsive, fresh ideas are inspired, planned and organised; hopefully to come into fruition with hard work and co-operation.
It is in the follow-through and committing to these plans and projects that we find success.
I hope you’ve all had a wonderful break and thank you to those who have replied during December and to my earlier email this week.
Things have been a little slow during the last two months in terms of contributors. Many people have emailed and phoned offering assistance to help but as I said earlier, it is in the commitment and follow-through that we see the plans realized.
I am positive about 2011 and realize that many people are still trying to get into the swing of new schedules [as I am] but believe that our contributors’ list will grow in order for us to assist those who are in dire need.
Thank you to the following contributors:
Arlene Johansson, Dr Lara Smith, Jane and Sebastian Dunn, Donna C., Sandy Schuurman, Rene Grimmbacher, Michael P., Sevi Avondo, Anna Johansson, Lesley Edkins, Willem and Denise van Bergen and our anonymous friends at Monterey Pre-Primary School.
A very special thank you to Sharon Wewege and Heather Mylne from the New Beginnings Baby Clinic, Meadowridge…
I received a phone call in December from Sharon to ask if I would give a talk at their Christmas lunch organised for approximately 40 new moms. When I agreed and arrived at the clinic, I was really overwhelmed by what these two women had organised. They arranged a lunch with a talk for these new moms and asked them to contribute to the Zoe Project’s mom and baby packs and dry goods pantry instead of buying one another gifts.
In addition to this, they could also donate money that would be used to buy a wheelchair for a very special 20 month old boy with severe health difficulties. Thankfully and wonderfully, the wheelchair was bought the following week [cost is approximately R20 000]! Wow, Sharon and Heather! The two of you are amazing and will be so blessed.
The Zoe Project received beautiful items of clothing and nappies for the baby packs and products for the mom packs, and tinned food items for the dry goods pantry.
Thank you for your continued support, your kindness and encouragement and your generosity of spirit.
Another very special thank you to Ametjie Rust and the Finance Department of Syntell (Pty) Ltd: Ametje Rust and her team members, Karen Davies, Janine Laubscher, Tanya Gonsalves, Thabisa Mendes, Kevin Eddy, Trichelle Green-Thompson, Deidre Claasen, Samantha Henson, Jamiela Abdulahman, Natalie Heuvel, Bridget Johnson, Kashiefa Solomons, Abigail Richards, Denise Kruger, Nolene Williams, Deshni Naidoo, Nzwakhele Mkhize, and Allison Rulse.
Allison called me in August to arrange something special for their team building event. They decided to contribute mom and baby packs for the Zoe Project’s Christmas Day babies.
To say that I was overwhelmed when I collected 24 x A4 paper BOXES of brand new, beautiful, carefully considered and packed and wrapped boxes from them, would be an understatement. I was in tears!
Thank you, thank you and thank you again – you made Christmas [and New Years Day] moms and babies feel very appreciated and loved.
I know through talking to Allison Rulse who co-ordinated everything, that each team member mentioned above was equally touched by knowing that these items would go to those who need it so badly. We wish you and your team success in your endeavours and know that you’ve been blessed by this experience too.
I have a couple of photographs that I will put on the blog where we have permission from the moms to publish them. It isn’t always easy or permitted to publish photos of moms and babies due to privacy issues.
And another very special to Rotary International and to Bob Harvey :
Thank you for arranging for the 5000 sterile wipes for the Clinic and the 4 large boxes of toys donated from overseas for the babies. The toys have brightened up many little lives and we wish you to thank your contributors. The sterila wipes have made work at the clinic for the staff so much easier.
Email updates:
I have requested before that you should let me know if you would like to continue receiving our email updates. Please let me know as I have only heard from a few people. If you do not respond, I will keep you on the mailing list.
Also, please continue to forward these updates to your friends and family and colleagues. It helps in many ways!
The year ahead for us in short:
Counseling and the most important functions of the Zoe Project will continue as always.
We are going to concentrate on the mom and baby packs and the dry goods pantry. We would love to be able to give more mom and baby packs to more people but we can only do that if we have enough donations.
We are trying to add to the food that the government allows for moms who give birth at the clinic. The food provided for by the state is ONE DRY PROVITA AND A CUP OF SOUP PER DAY! That is the only meal. And as many of you know, this is not enough nourishment for a new mom who is breastfeeding a baby.
Many moms stay behind as Kangaroo moms [sometimes for 10 to 12 days] as they cannot leave the clinic due to regulation and fear of abandonment. Unless their families bring them food [which doesn’t happen] they only eat what the state and we provide.
Your contributions assist us to provide much needed nutrition.
This year I will not be collecting 2nd hand clothing or items of linen. Last year we had a really good response and I know that many of you prefer to give these items to us because you know that they are going to places of need. Unfortunately, it is extremely time consuming to sort these items and I do not have the capacity at present to do this due to other commitments and obligations with work.
If you do have items that you would like to donate, take them to your nearest home for children or place of safety for women and children; alternatively, [believe it or not] your Ward Councillor will know of people in need either in your area or another area.
I would like to say thank you again and in anticipation for your continued support in the next year. I look forward to seeing all of you and hearing your news.
Please continue to pass on our notices and continue to email or phone me should you have any questions.
Happy February everyone and lots of love
Norah Papanicolaou
Zoe Update November 2010
Hello Everybody
It is that time of the year – silly season! Schools break up for a very long and much needed holiday,
families plan visits and trips, and we rush around getting last-minute things together for the festive season.
I hope you’ll all have a wonderful, restful time.
I will not be doing a newsletter in December this year, as I will be taking some time off. The past year has
been a huge challenge for us all, and this will be a time for me to spend with my family and children.
Definitely a much-needed and anticipated break!
Thank you to the following contributors:
Arlene Johansson, Dr Lara Smith, Marlene Helfrecht, Bronwyn Hopwood, Jane and Sebastian Dunn, Tara and Dave Dunn, Sandy Schuurman, Sharon Wewege, Heather Mylne, Rene Grimmbacher, Sam and Liam Grimmbacher, Michael P., Donna Cobban and Luc Michot, Anna Johansson, Kaye Longman, Yolanda and Allan Parry, Collyeen Sinclair, Bessie and Athina Kotsiopolous, Dimitra Kotsiopolous, Willem and Denise van Bergen, Annette Milner, Elaine Aquadro, Pam Cable, friends at New Beginnings Clinic and friends at Monterey Pre-Primary School, Georgie and anonymous friends from Constantiaberg Pre-Primary School.
Babies Born during November:
There were 177 babies born during November – 97 were boys and the rest girls. Twelve babies were born to young women 17 or younger.
A Reflection on the year behind us:
As far as the counseling goes, Tracey has seen 115 clients and has facilitated 7 adoptions. It has been interesting that the severity of problems experienced by clients have increased due to the rise in tik abuse. Clients are much more inclined to be dishonest, with worse anger problems, resulting in much more time-consuming counseling. The new Act has clamped down on ladies re-entering the same safe houses time and time again, making it difficult to find immediate relief from their situations. But with all this, we have had outstanding results through the year.
We have assisted in removing approximately 10 women and their children to safe houses where domestic violence have been taking place, ensuring better prospects for the mom through the training and counseling provided at the safe houses as well as ensuring the children enter crèches or schools in the areas of the safe houses.
We held a Dullah [birthing partner] course on 18th September, to which 15 people attended. It was an amazing day and left a lot of the women wide-eyed and excited. We have two new Dullahs who have joined our team, Yolanda and Grishelle. They are an absolute blessing to the moms and staff at Retreat MOU. We continue to receive enquiries as to assisting at the clinic in this regard.
The six-a-side Zoe soccer tournament was held on Saturday, 27th November, which was a success. It was amazing to see how sport can be used as a tool to bring people together and to make people aware of the Zoe Project.
240 mom packs and 240 baby packs have been supplied to the Retreat MOU this year. Ten amazing Christmas packs have already been made up and are ready for those precious Christmas babies. All this thanks to your generosity throughout the year.
We have also been promised more baby and moms packs from a corporate sponsor and we cannot wait to distribute theses to our moms on Christmas day.
We now supply 100 portions of homemade soups per month. That’s a whopping 1200 meals per year, absolutely amazing! As well as 32 loaves of bread a month and 8 margarines per month. This is produced consistently throughout the year.
Our dry goods pantry supplies meals for approximately 75 people a month – another 900 meals per year! Incredible to think how far soup and pasta as well as tinned food can go.
There was also a large donation of portable blood-pressure machines, surgical gloves, catheters, etc which has been invaluable to the staff and patients.
Regina Dyonasie, from Masiphumelele, has joined the Zoe Project, handing out food and baby parcels where needed. It has been encouraging to see her enthusiasm in taking responsibility for these donations to her community.
Thank you so much to each of you who have helped us help others. I trust you will all have a blessed December and January. Take this time to enjoy special moments with family and friends.
Lots of love as always,
Norah Papanicolaou
It is that time of the year – silly season! Schools break up for a very long and much needed holiday,
families plan visits and trips, and we rush around getting last-minute things together for the festive season.
I hope you’ll all have a wonderful, restful time.
I will not be doing a newsletter in December this year, as I will be taking some time off. The past year has
been a huge challenge for us all, and this will be a time for me to spend with my family and children.
Definitely a much-needed and anticipated break!
Thank you to the following contributors:
Arlene Johansson, Dr Lara Smith, Marlene Helfrecht, Bronwyn Hopwood, Jane and Sebastian Dunn, Tara and Dave Dunn, Sandy Schuurman, Sharon Wewege, Heather Mylne, Rene Grimmbacher, Sam and Liam Grimmbacher, Michael P., Donna Cobban and Luc Michot, Anna Johansson, Kaye Longman, Yolanda and Allan Parry, Collyeen Sinclair, Bessie and Athina Kotsiopolous, Dimitra Kotsiopolous, Willem and Denise van Bergen, Annette Milner, Elaine Aquadro, Pam Cable, friends at New Beginnings Clinic and friends at Monterey Pre-Primary School, Georgie and anonymous friends from Constantiaberg Pre-Primary School.
Babies Born during November:
There were 177 babies born during November – 97 were boys and the rest girls. Twelve babies were born to young women 17 or younger.
A Reflection on the year behind us:
As far as the counseling goes, Tracey has seen 115 clients and has facilitated 7 adoptions. It has been interesting that the severity of problems experienced by clients have increased due to the rise in tik abuse. Clients are much more inclined to be dishonest, with worse anger problems, resulting in much more time-consuming counseling. The new Act has clamped down on ladies re-entering the same safe houses time and time again, making it difficult to find immediate relief from their situations. But with all this, we have had outstanding results through the year.
We have assisted in removing approximately 10 women and their children to safe houses where domestic violence have been taking place, ensuring better prospects for the mom through the training and counseling provided at the safe houses as well as ensuring the children enter crèches or schools in the areas of the safe houses.
We held a Dullah [birthing partner] course on 18th September, to which 15 people attended. It was an amazing day and left a lot of the women wide-eyed and excited. We have two new Dullahs who have joined our team, Yolanda and Grishelle. They are an absolute blessing to the moms and staff at Retreat MOU. We continue to receive enquiries as to assisting at the clinic in this regard.
The six-a-side Zoe soccer tournament was held on Saturday, 27th November, which was a success. It was amazing to see how sport can be used as a tool to bring people together and to make people aware of the Zoe Project.
240 mom packs and 240 baby packs have been supplied to the Retreat MOU this year. Ten amazing Christmas packs have already been made up and are ready for those precious Christmas babies. All this thanks to your generosity throughout the year.
We have also been promised more baby and moms packs from a corporate sponsor and we cannot wait to distribute theses to our moms on Christmas day.
We now supply 100 portions of homemade soups per month. That’s a whopping 1200 meals per year, absolutely amazing! As well as 32 loaves of bread a month and 8 margarines per month. This is produced consistently throughout the year.
Our dry goods pantry supplies meals for approximately 75 people a month – another 900 meals per year! Incredible to think how far soup and pasta as well as tinned food can go.
There was also a large donation of portable blood-pressure machines, surgical gloves, catheters, etc which has been invaluable to the staff and patients.
Regina Dyonasie, from Masiphumelele, has joined the Zoe Project, handing out food and baby parcels where needed. It has been encouraging to see her enthusiasm in taking responsibility for these donations to her community.
Thank you so much to each of you who have helped us help others. I trust you will all have a blessed December and January. Take this time to enjoy special moments with family and friends.
Lots of love as always,
Norah Papanicolaou
Friday, November 5, 2010
Update October 2010
Hello everybody
There is always light at the end of every dark tunnel, we just sometimes need to find it!
This year is almost over. We are in the first week of November and my children and family are already talking about the Christmas holidays! I must remind myself every day to pace myself, otherwise the hours will run away from me.
I hope the proximity of the end of the year is a relaxed one for you.
Thank you to the following contributors:
Arlene Johannson, Dr Lara Smith, Bronwyn Hopwood, Marlene Helfrecht, Jane and Sebastian Dunn, Tara and Dave Dunn, Kaye Longman, Sandy Schuurmans, Sharon Wewege, Heather Mylne, Michael P., Donna Cobban, Luc Michot, Anna Johannson, Yolanda and Allan Parry, Collyeen Sinclair and Dr Ian Sinclair, Bessie and Athina Kotsiopolous, Elaine Aquadro, Willem and Denise van Bergen, Annette Milner, Elizabeth, Lara and Ross, Salome Coetzee, Lesley Edkins, Fran, Dai Davies, Vyv Deacon, Anonymous friends from New Beginnings clinic in Bergvliet, Anonymous friends from Monterey Pre-Primary School and Rotary International.
Babies born in October 2010:
There were 88 girls and 79 boys born during October. Two sets of twins among them. As explained in a previous email, twins are not usually born at the clinic, but well done to the staff and Dullahs who assisted. You are doing fantastic work! Seventeen girls under the age of 17 gave birth during October 2010. We are hoping for a decrease in figures here.
I would like to add that it is humbling for everyone involved in volunteering at Retreat MOU. The instances where children are given up for adoption especially, is emotional for all involved.
Our volunteers are sometimes caught off guard because a young girl may come in, claiming not to know that she was pregnant due to the denial of being raped. The baby is given up for adoption through legal channels and is immediately removed by a social worker and taken to a foster parent. But the young girl who has just given birth – her life will be changed forever. Not only because of the adoption, or the rape, but also because of the encounter with a volunteer from the Zoe Project.
It changes the perspective and the hopeless view this girl may have had to one where life seems hopeful. And at the same time, the life and experience of the volunteer is changed too. I cannot stress how much the time and love you exert is appreciated.
Counseling for these young women is ongoing. We are constantly reminded of how precious life is and to appreciate everything that comes our way.
Mom and Baby packs:
Thank you again for the beautiful products received for the mom and baby packs. We are still in desperate need of size medium, new panties for the moms.
Regarding second hand clothing:
I am not in a position right now to receive any more 2nd hand clothing, but will be again next year. Please either keep the clothing or take it to your nearest safe house or baby home. If you need contact details, please call or email me.
Medical Equipment received in September:
Thank you so much to Dr Ian Sinclair who put us in contact with Rotary International. They have provided much needed medical equipment for the Retreat maternity unit: over 5000 lancets [to prick the baby’s heels], follie’s catheters, surgical gloves and automatic blood pressure cuffs were among the items received. It is worth gold and has made such a huge difference to the staff and patients. Dai Davies and Vyv Deacon were present at the hand-over to Tracey Aitken and Yolanda Parry and sister Lynda Smith.
SAPS and Victim Empowerment Groups and Trauma Rooms
The subject discussed below is very difficult for people to even consider, but I would like to put out an appeal to each of you to consider preparing a KIT for one rape victim, and deliver it to your closest SAPS office.
The first call for any rape victim is often a police station.
The reason I’m appealing for this is that the SAPS Trauma rooms that I have spoken to are in desperate need of these rape kits. If you live in an area where the trauma rooms have enough prepared rape kits,
the counselors in conjunction with Community Policing Forum members pass it on to those areas where there is a shortfall of kits or a high rape incident rate.
A kit for rape victims consists of the following:
For an adult:
Panties, sanitary pads, deodorant [spray or roll-on], soap, face cloth, disinfectant hand wash, toothbrush and toothpaste, a t-shirt, a hand-towel.
For children:
Broken down into the following age-groups
0-2 year olds: nappies, a soft toy, a blanket, a baby bottle and/or a dummy, a clean set of clothing.
3-8 year olds: underpants or panties, a clean set of clothing [unisex], soap, facecloth, mouthwash, size small pads or panty liners, a blanket and a cuddly toy, a sweetie or chocolate and a juice.
8-12 year olds: the same as for 3-8 year olds, but larger clothing, a note book and pen, colouring book and pencils.
These rape victim kits assist the police and trauma counselors in giving the rape victim, adult or child, a less traumatic experience when reporting the rape.
If we can change the course of one person’s life to something positive, we have achieved a lot.
I hope you will all stay well and enjoy the summer that is slowly sneaking in.
Thank you again for all that you do.
With love as always
Norah Papanicolaou
There is always light at the end of every dark tunnel, we just sometimes need to find it!
This year is almost over. We are in the first week of November and my children and family are already talking about the Christmas holidays! I must remind myself every day to pace myself, otherwise the hours will run away from me.
I hope the proximity of the end of the year is a relaxed one for you.
Thank you to the following contributors:
Arlene Johannson, Dr Lara Smith, Bronwyn Hopwood, Marlene Helfrecht, Jane and Sebastian Dunn, Tara and Dave Dunn, Kaye Longman, Sandy Schuurmans, Sharon Wewege, Heather Mylne, Michael P., Donna Cobban, Luc Michot, Anna Johannson, Yolanda and Allan Parry, Collyeen Sinclair and Dr Ian Sinclair, Bessie and Athina Kotsiopolous, Elaine Aquadro, Willem and Denise van Bergen, Annette Milner, Elizabeth, Lara and Ross, Salome Coetzee, Lesley Edkins, Fran, Dai Davies, Vyv Deacon, Anonymous friends from New Beginnings clinic in Bergvliet, Anonymous friends from Monterey Pre-Primary School and Rotary International.
Babies born in October 2010:
There were 88 girls and 79 boys born during October. Two sets of twins among them. As explained in a previous email, twins are not usually born at the clinic, but well done to the staff and Dullahs who assisted. You are doing fantastic work! Seventeen girls under the age of 17 gave birth during October 2010. We are hoping for a decrease in figures here.
I would like to add that it is humbling for everyone involved in volunteering at Retreat MOU. The instances where children are given up for adoption especially, is emotional for all involved.
Our volunteers are sometimes caught off guard because a young girl may come in, claiming not to know that she was pregnant due to the denial of being raped. The baby is given up for adoption through legal channels and is immediately removed by a social worker and taken to a foster parent. But the young girl who has just given birth – her life will be changed forever. Not only because of the adoption, or the rape, but also because of the encounter with a volunteer from the Zoe Project.
It changes the perspective and the hopeless view this girl may have had to one where life seems hopeful. And at the same time, the life and experience of the volunteer is changed too. I cannot stress how much the time and love you exert is appreciated.
Counseling for these young women is ongoing. We are constantly reminded of how precious life is and to appreciate everything that comes our way.
Mom and Baby packs:
Thank you again for the beautiful products received for the mom and baby packs. We are still in desperate need of size medium, new panties for the moms.
Regarding second hand clothing:
I am not in a position right now to receive any more 2nd hand clothing, but will be again next year. Please either keep the clothing or take it to your nearest safe house or baby home. If you need contact details, please call or email me.
Medical Equipment received in September:
Thank you so much to Dr Ian Sinclair who put us in contact with Rotary International. They have provided much needed medical equipment for the Retreat maternity unit: over 5000 lancets [to prick the baby’s heels], follie’s catheters, surgical gloves and automatic blood pressure cuffs were among the items received. It is worth gold and has made such a huge difference to the staff and patients. Dai Davies and Vyv Deacon were present at the hand-over to Tracey Aitken and Yolanda Parry and sister Lynda Smith.
Vyv Deacon, Tracey Aitken, Yolanda Parry, sister Lynda Smith and Dai Davies.
{photo by Allan Parry}
We have also received endoscopes which Yolanda has taken to Victoria Hospital where it will be put to good use.SAPS and Victim Empowerment Groups and Trauma Rooms
The subject discussed below is very difficult for people to even consider, but I would like to put out an appeal to each of you to consider preparing a KIT for one rape victim, and deliver it to your closest SAPS office.
The first call for any rape victim is often a police station.
The reason I’m appealing for this is that the SAPS Trauma rooms that I have spoken to are in desperate need of these rape kits. If you live in an area where the trauma rooms have enough prepared rape kits,
the counselors in conjunction with Community Policing Forum members pass it on to those areas where there is a shortfall of kits or a high rape incident rate.
A kit for rape victims consists of the following:
For an adult:
Panties, sanitary pads, deodorant [spray or roll-on], soap, face cloth, disinfectant hand wash, toothbrush and toothpaste, a t-shirt, a hand-towel.
For children:
Broken down into the following age-groups
0-2 year olds: nappies, a soft toy, a blanket, a baby bottle and/or a dummy, a clean set of clothing.
3-8 year olds: underpants or panties, a clean set of clothing [unisex], soap, facecloth, mouthwash, size small pads or panty liners, a blanket and a cuddly toy, a sweetie or chocolate and a juice.
8-12 year olds: the same as for 3-8 year olds, but larger clothing, a note book and pen, colouring book and pencils.
These rape victim kits assist the police and trauma counselors in giving the rape victim, adult or child, a less traumatic experience when reporting the rape.
If we can change the course of one person’s life to something positive, we have achieved a lot.
I hope you will all stay well and enjoy the summer that is slowly sneaking in.
Thank you again for all that you do.
With love as always
Norah Papanicolaou
Friday, October 8, 2010
Update September 2010
Hello Everybody
It has been a really busy and difficult month for us but I’m happy to say that the worst is over, we are all well again and that hopefully soon, we can all get back on track and do what we need to do.
Thank you for all your well wishes and love and help.
Thank you to the following contributors:
Arlene Johansson, Dr Lara Smith, Bronwyn Hopwood, Marlene Helfrecht, Jane and Sebastian Dunn, Tara and Dave Dunn, Sharon Wewege, Heather Mylne, Rene Grimmbacher, Liam and Sam Grimmbacher, Michael P., Donna Cobban, Luc Michot, Anna Johansson, Yolanda and Alan Parry, The DA Ladies Committee, Bessie and Athina Kotsiopolous, Jessica Midlane and baby Lucy, Helen Schick and baby Maia, Claire Surman and Baby Ellie, Catherine Orr and baby Benjamin, Cahterine Johnson and Baby Charlie, Jill Barker and baby Oscar, Kara Williams and baby Noah, Melissa Talbot and baby Evie, Rachel McCurrie and baby Hamish, Catherine Swindles and baby Neave, Elaine Aquadro, Willem and Denise van Bergen, Annette Milner, Tara Girdlestone, Our friends at the New Beginnings Clinic, and our friends from Monterey Pre-Primary School. If I have left any names out, please forgive me. There are just so many caring people out there who have contributed generously with products as well as time and expertise – thank you to each of you and know that you have made a difference in someone’s life.
Babies Born during September:
There were 206 babies born at the clinic in September; 94 boys and 112 girls.
I found it very surprising at the amount of new moms aged 40 +… there were at least 15 of them and I had to giggle to myself and ask if there was a power failure 9 months ago.
But jokes aside, there is still a large number of young girls giving birth and when asked, they all say that it is a planned pregnancy. The clinic saw twin boys born at the end of September – this is unusual as the twins are seen as a complicated birth and are normally sent to Groote Schuur hospital.
The largest baby weighed 4,554 grams.
Mom and Baby packs:
We continue to receive the most beautiful NEW items for the mom and baby packs – thank you very much for this as we only give NEW items for these. We still have a shortfall of panties for all the moms who go to the clinic.
Dry Goods’ Pantry:
Yolanda Parry still continues to add to the pantry in terms of frozen soup – this is on top of the contribution of 20 frozen soups per month from another person. Fresh bread, jam and peanut butter is given weekly and this just adds to our existing pantry of noodles, packet soups, baked beans, tinned tomatoes, rice and pasta.
The government still only supplies one dry Provita and a cup of soup daily for each patient.
2nd hand baby clothes from UK:
Jessica Midlane and friends [noted above] collected clothing for safe houses and baby homes. We managed to get Rob Aquadro who works for Richard Branson’s Virgin Group of companies to transport free of charge, the goods via ship to Cape Town. We were awed by the response from everyone involved who helped to do this.
Reality set in and the goods could not be cleared through customs due to red tape. 2nd hand clothing is an item that cannot be imported as a donation. VAT and clearances needed to be paid – which were going to be waved, but unfortunately due to the fact that there were 15 nappies and 4 pairs of baby shoes in the consignment, another additional two permits were needed.
These could only be given once an 8 page document were completed in triplicate and sent to Pretoria; and in addition to this, a document from a registered NGO needed to be completed stating that we are not going to re-sell these items.
While all this was happening, the consignment was stored and the storage fee amounted to more than the value of the clothing – a couple of thousand rands.
Due to this and the fact stated above, the goods have been moved to the State warehouse where one of the following things can happen:
It will be auctioned off. If not sold it may either be destroyed or the government can donate the goods to less fortunate.
We are investigating attending the auction in October some time.
This has been a harrowing experience for me as well as a huge learning curve for all involved.
Place of Hope
Numerous people have been paying a lot of attention to Place of Hope – one of the safe houses to where we send some of our moms and babies.
Thank you so much especially Suzelle and your group – the room make overs are valued more than you can imagine and the Pamper day is still spoken about.
Staff at the clinic
These are dedicated and hard-working women who are often affected by the patients they see daily. One cannot do this work without having amazing amounts of compassion for others.
Last month during a gang-shooting at the day hospital next door, they just continued working with this going on and police running around – that is dedication!
Dullah course
I have had a number of enquiries for this even as far away as Rustenberg. Please send me more emails and I will give you the details of the courses run for our Dullahs.
Soccer Day
Annually we have a soccer day in order to raise funds for a special day for the staff at the clinic. This usually happens in November and teams may enter at R20 per person.
It has proven to be a day of great fun and the funds are then taken and we have a team building day for all the staff who really value the fact that we do something special for them.
If you want to enter a soccer team and join us for this, please email me and I will send the details.
DA Ladies group
Councillor Denis Joseph and the DA Ladies’ Committee have visited both the MOU and Day hospital in the past month, distributing sandwiches and soup.
Thank you Denis and Harriet for what you do for the Retreat community.
Donations of 2nd hand clothing for women, men and children:
At present I am still busy organising our house. As you know, we have moved recently and I still have to unpack and sort personal things, so I am going to ask that you hold on to the clothing that you’d like to donate for safe houses and children’s homes until such time that I say that I am collecting again.
Should you wish to, however, I can give a list of places to where you may take these items yourself.
Thank you again and I hope you’re all well and healthy.
Enjoy the spring blossoms and the occasional rain – summer will be here soon!
Lots of love always
Norah
It has been a really busy and difficult month for us but I’m happy to say that the worst is over, we are all well again and that hopefully soon, we can all get back on track and do what we need to do.
Thank you for all your well wishes and love and help.
Thank you to the following contributors:
Arlene Johansson, Dr Lara Smith, Bronwyn Hopwood, Marlene Helfrecht, Jane and Sebastian Dunn, Tara and Dave Dunn, Sharon Wewege, Heather Mylne, Rene Grimmbacher, Liam and Sam Grimmbacher, Michael P., Donna Cobban, Luc Michot, Anna Johansson, Yolanda and Alan Parry, The DA Ladies Committee, Bessie and Athina Kotsiopolous, Jessica Midlane and baby Lucy, Helen Schick and baby Maia, Claire Surman and Baby Ellie, Catherine Orr and baby Benjamin, Cahterine Johnson and Baby Charlie, Jill Barker and baby Oscar, Kara Williams and baby Noah, Melissa Talbot and baby Evie, Rachel McCurrie and baby Hamish, Catherine Swindles and baby Neave, Elaine Aquadro, Willem and Denise van Bergen, Annette Milner, Tara Girdlestone, Our friends at the New Beginnings Clinic, and our friends from Monterey Pre-Primary School. If I have left any names out, please forgive me. There are just so many caring people out there who have contributed generously with products as well as time and expertise – thank you to each of you and know that you have made a difference in someone’s life.
Babies Born during September:
There were 206 babies born at the clinic in September; 94 boys and 112 girls.
I found it very surprising at the amount of new moms aged 40 +… there were at least 15 of them and I had to giggle to myself and ask if there was a power failure 9 months ago.
But jokes aside, there is still a large number of young girls giving birth and when asked, they all say that it is a planned pregnancy. The clinic saw twin boys born at the end of September – this is unusual as the twins are seen as a complicated birth and are normally sent to Groote Schuur hospital.
The largest baby weighed 4,554 grams.
Mom and Baby packs:
We continue to receive the most beautiful NEW items for the mom and baby packs – thank you very much for this as we only give NEW items for these. We still have a shortfall of panties for all the moms who go to the clinic.
Dry Goods’ Pantry:
Yolanda Parry still continues to add to the pantry in terms of frozen soup – this is on top of the contribution of 20 frozen soups per month from another person. Fresh bread, jam and peanut butter is given weekly and this just adds to our existing pantry of noodles, packet soups, baked beans, tinned tomatoes, rice and pasta.
The government still only supplies one dry Provita and a cup of soup daily for each patient.
2nd hand baby clothes from UK:
Jessica Midlane and friends [noted above] collected clothing for safe houses and baby homes. We managed to get Rob Aquadro who works for Richard Branson’s Virgin Group of companies to transport free of charge, the goods via ship to Cape Town. We were awed by the response from everyone involved who helped to do this.
Reality set in and the goods could not be cleared through customs due to red tape. 2nd hand clothing is an item that cannot be imported as a donation. VAT and clearances needed to be paid – which were going to be waved, but unfortunately due to the fact that there were 15 nappies and 4 pairs of baby shoes in the consignment, another additional two permits were needed.
These could only be given once an 8 page document were completed in triplicate and sent to Pretoria; and in addition to this, a document from a registered NGO needed to be completed stating that we are not going to re-sell these items.
While all this was happening, the consignment was stored and the storage fee amounted to more than the value of the clothing – a couple of thousand rands.
Due to this and the fact stated above, the goods have been moved to the State warehouse where one of the following things can happen:
It will be auctioned off. If not sold it may either be destroyed or the government can donate the goods to less fortunate.
We are investigating attending the auction in October some time.
This has been a harrowing experience for me as well as a huge learning curve for all involved.
Place of Hope
Numerous people have been paying a lot of attention to Place of Hope – one of the safe houses to where we send some of our moms and babies.
Thank you so much especially Suzelle and your group – the room make overs are valued more than you can imagine and the Pamper day is still spoken about.
Staff at the clinic
These are dedicated and hard-working women who are often affected by the patients they see daily. One cannot do this work without having amazing amounts of compassion for others.
Last month during a gang-shooting at the day hospital next door, they just continued working with this going on and police running around – that is dedication!
Dullah course
I have had a number of enquiries for this even as far away as Rustenberg. Please send me more emails and I will give you the details of the courses run for our Dullahs.
Soccer Day
Annually we have a soccer day in order to raise funds for a special day for the staff at the clinic. This usually happens in November and teams may enter at R20 per person.
It has proven to be a day of great fun and the funds are then taken and we have a team building day for all the staff who really value the fact that we do something special for them.
If you want to enter a soccer team and join us for this, please email me and I will send the details.
DA Ladies group
Councillor Denis Joseph and the DA Ladies’ Committee have visited both the MOU and Day hospital in the past month, distributing sandwiches and soup.
Thank you Denis and Harriet for what you do for the Retreat community.
Donations of 2nd hand clothing for women, men and children:
At present I am still busy organising our house. As you know, we have moved recently and I still have to unpack and sort personal things, so I am going to ask that you hold on to the clothing that you’d like to donate for safe houses and children’s homes until such time that I say that I am collecting again.
Should you wish to, however, I can give a list of places to where you may take these items yourself.
Thank you again and I hope you’re all well and healthy.
Enjoy the spring blossoms and the occasional rain – summer will be here soon!
Lots of love always
Norah
Update August 2010
Hello Everybody
I trust you’re all well. It is almost school holidays again, and before we know it, Christmas!
Thank you to the following contributors:
Arlene Johansson, Dr Lara Smith, Marlene Helfrecht, Bronwyn Hopwood, Elize Johnson, Jane and Sebastian Dunn, Tara and Dave Dunn, Sandy Schuurmans, Sharon Wewege, Heather Mylne, Ingrid Rix, Rene Grimmbacher, Michael P., Anna Johansson, Annette Cowley-Nel, Yolanda Parry, Denis and Harriet Joseph, The DA Ladies’ Committee, Bessie and Athina Kotsiopolous, Jessica Midlane, Rob Aquadro, Anonymous friends at the New Beginnings Clinic, Anonymous friends at Monterey Pre-Primary School, Willem and Denise van Bergen.
Babies Born during August:
There were 164 babies born during August – 76 girls and 88 boys. Quite a low number and unusual.
Mom and baby packs:
We continue to receive the most beautiful new clothing and blankets for the baby packs. I stress the word new because every little item has been bought with care or made with love. This is probably the only new clothing most of these newborns receive. Thank you so much.
Dry goods pantry:
The pantry is going strong. Thank you to the DA Ladies Committee who paid a special visit to the clinic as well as the day hospital on Friday last week. Your presence was much appreciated.
Thank you also to each of you who have been making soup for us – it is the quickest and most nutritional meal we have to offer at present.
Donation of 2nd hand clothing from Jessica Midlane and friends:
Currently these items are in Cape Town but stuck in the Customs office. Unfortunately, due to the customs and excise act, they cannot release the items unless A LOT of paperwork is sent to and fro… it is a bit of a nightmare, but we will get the stuff out. Once we do, I will take photos and post them on the blog.
Thank you Jessica and friends [I have the list of names of the moms and the babies who have contributed and will note them in a later update]; thank you Rob Aquadro [who is able to perform small miracles].
Donation of much needed medical equipment:
At Present, these items are on the way to us. Once I get a list of items received, along with the names of the donors, I will let you all know. It is so much needed and welcomed. A very special thank you to Yolanda Parry who has arranged all of this.
Thank you for all the notes of encouragement and support we receive. I am receiving emails and phone calls from people who heard from a friend and so on, about our project. Please continue to forward our newsletters and updates to your friends and family.
My family and I will be moving on Wednesday, 8th September…. Finally! I am still surrounded by boxes – just more, this time.
Have a fantastic month and lots of love
Norah
I trust you’re all well. It is almost school holidays again, and before we know it, Christmas!
Thank you to the following contributors:
Arlene Johansson, Dr Lara Smith, Marlene Helfrecht, Bronwyn Hopwood, Elize Johnson, Jane and Sebastian Dunn, Tara and Dave Dunn, Sandy Schuurmans, Sharon Wewege, Heather Mylne, Ingrid Rix, Rene Grimmbacher, Michael P., Anna Johansson, Annette Cowley-Nel, Yolanda Parry, Denis and Harriet Joseph, The DA Ladies’ Committee, Bessie and Athina Kotsiopolous, Jessica Midlane, Rob Aquadro, Anonymous friends at the New Beginnings Clinic, Anonymous friends at Monterey Pre-Primary School, Willem and Denise van Bergen.
Babies Born during August:
There were 164 babies born during August – 76 girls and 88 boys. Quite a low number and unusual.
Mom and baby packs:
We continue to receive the most beautiful new clothing and blankets for the baby packs. I stress the word new because every little item has been bought with care or made with love. This is probably the only new clothing most of these newborns receive. Thank you so much.
Dry goods pantry:
The pantry is going strong. Thank you to the DA Ladies Committee who paid a special visit to the clinic as well as the day hospital on Friday last week. Your presence was much appreciated.
Thank you also to each of you who have been making soup for us – it is the quickest and most nutritional meal we have to offer at present.
Donation of 2nd hand clothing from Jessica Midlane and friends:
Currently these items are in Cape Town but stuck in the Customs office. Unfortunately, due to the customs and excise act, they cannot release the items unless A LOT of paperwork is sent to and fro… it is a bit of a nightmare, but we will get the stuff out. Once we do, I will take photos and post them on the blog.
Thank you Jessica and friends [I have the list of names of the moms and the babies who have contributed and will note them in a later update]; thank you Rob Aquadro [who is able to perform small miracles].
Donation of much needed medical equipment:
At Present, these items are on the way to us. Once I get a list of items received, along with the names of the donors, I will let you all know. It is so much needed and welcomed. A very special thank you to Yolanda Parry who has arranged all of this.
Thank you for all the notes of encouragement and support we receive. I am receiving emails and phone calls from people who heard from a friend and so on, about our project. Please continue to forward our newsletters and updates to your friends and family.
My family and I will be moving on Wednesday, 8th September…. Finally! I am still surrounded by boxes – just more, this time.
Have a fantastic month and lots of love
Norah
Monday, August 9, 2010
Update July 2010
Hello Everybody
Just when I thought we could pack away warm clothes because of the lovely warm days we’ve had, the weather turns and it is cold again. I forget that July and August are the months of freezing wind – let’s just hope that September will come quickly and then we can celebrate Spring and start enjoying picnics and summery days again.
Thank you to the following contributors
Arlene Johansson, Dr Lara Smith, Bronwyn Hopwood, Marlene Helfrecht, Jane and Sebastian Dunn, Tara and Dave Dunn, Sharon Wewege, Heather Mylne, Sheena Hutchings, Ingrid Rix, Suzelle Moolman and friends, Michael P., Donna Cobban, Luc Michot, Anna Johansson, Ruby Passet-Gradwell, Yolanda and Alan Parry, Bessie and Athina Kotsiopolous, Liz Brunette, Elaine Aquadro, Annette Milner, Taryn Hopwood, Cindy Robertson, Joeline Stupel, Mikki Dimopoulos, Tim and Judith Brebner, Willem and Denise van Bergen, Rob Aquadro, our friends in Manchester, UK: Jessica Midlane, Helen S., Claire S., Catherine O., Catherine J., Jill B and friends, Kara W., Melissa T., Nicola C., Rachel Mc., Sir Richard Branson, Anonymous friends at New Beginnings Clinic, anonymous parents from Monterey Pre-Primary School.
About 3 months ago I jokingly asked that if anyone knew Sir Richard Branson, to please ask him to assist us in bringing clothing for safe and baby houses from the UK. Jessica Midlane and her friends from Manchester had collected for us but we had no way of bringing it over as we do not have the funds for shipping.
Elaine Aquadro is a neighbour and her son Rob works for a company owned by Richard Branson, and miraculously, we were put together and he is sponsoring the shipment for us. These items left the UK via boat on the 20 August and should be in Cape Town in about 3 weeks’ time.
I am over the moon and yet again, dumbfounded at just how the world turns and how things come together and work out. Thank you so much Rob for assisting us with this problem and for all the trouble you’ve gone to on our behalf. You are indeed a hero!
Babies Born:
There were 182 babies born at the clinic in July – 109 were boys and 73 girls; all perfect and beautiful.
Mom and Baby Packs
Thank you for the beautiful clothes for the babies as well as the items for the mom packs. They are indeed very much appreciated. We have been privileged in receiving a small quantity of panties for moms that we’ve given to the sisters in charge – these will be given to the moms who desperately need them.
We are still appealing for more medium sized panties [either washable or disposable] as we never have enough for the moms.
Dry goods pantry
The support for the dry goods pantry has been great again – I laugh sometimes, because our freezer [Thank you Sheena] is filled with soups [thank you Yolanda and friends] and not just the 40 we normally receive.
Medical Equipment
About 2 years ago I had discussions with UNICEF about sponsoring medical equipment for the clinic, but due to reasons beyond my control, this fell through. Yolanda Parry has been in contact with a group who has indicated that they’ll be supplying Retreat Maternity with some of the much needed medical equipment. I’ll fill you in on more about this next month as I do not have the details yet.
Breastfeeding Clinic
The need for information on breastfeeding for moms at the clinic has been noted and with the initiative taken by Antoinette, one of the sisters at the clinic, she has started a breastfeeding clinic. The first formal breastfeeding clinic was on Friday, 6th August, and from what I hear, the response was very positive.
The passion with which Antoinette approaches this, is admirable; and it does take determination for a mom who is struggling to breastfeed, to continue. Antoinette is helping moms give their babies the best first defense in life.
City of Cape Town
The CoCT has, in recognition of Women’s Day, arranged for women over the age of 30 to have free cervical/pap-smears.
One of the venues where this will be held is the Day Hospital next to the Retreat Maternity Clinic. This has been advertised far and wide in Cape Town but the response at the Retreat Maternity Clinic has been an excited hub of telling everyone to come. Cervical smears are so important and many women forget to have this done. Cervical cancer is a silent killer and all it takes is one pap smear every year to ensure your health.
67 Days on Mandela Day – 18 July
A Huge thank you to all of you who participated in making the lives of those who are less fortunate better by offering 67 minutes [and more in most cases] of your time on this day. Thank you especially to Tracey and Sean Fraser and friends for organising food for 300 homeless people on this day. You guys are selfless beyond words and are an example to all of us.
Women’s Day – 9 August
Lilian Ngoyi, Bertha Mashaba and Helen Joseph were 3 of 20 000 women who marched to the Union Buildings in protest of the Pass Laws on 9 August 1956.
Today, we pay tribute to women who changed the course of South African history by celebrating Women’s Day; but also to recognise that women are silently capable of changing the world.
Suzelle Moolman is a friend of mine and has been working with a group of her friends at Place of Hope in Crawford, a place of safety for abused women and children. Suzelle is organising a pamper day in honour of Women’s Day for Saturday 14th August. The women and teenaged girls who live there will have a short aerobics class, will have their hair washed and styled, listen to a talk by a psychologist, and be given small pamper bags.
If anyone is interested in helping out on the day, it will be from 9am to 2pm, on Saturday 14th August – please contact me.
On a personal note
I will be without email from the 23 August up until about the 3 September. You will only be able to contact me on my mobile phone.
I will be doing a collection week during 23 August to 27 August, so please call me to arrange collection or drop off if you can.
Also, I will only be collecting items for the mom and baby packs as well as food items for the dry goods pantry .Please keep the second hand clothing until next month’s collection week.
Have fun this week, and surround yourselves with positive things … Life is good!
Lots of love
Norah Papanicolaou
Just when I thought we could pack away warm clothes because of the lovely warm days we’ve had, the weather turns and it is cold again. I forget that July and August are the months of freezing wind – let’s just hope that September will come quickly and then we can celebrate Spring and start enjoying picnics and summery days again.
Thank you to the following contributors
Arlene Johansson, Dr Lara Smith, Bronwyn Hopwood, Marlene Helfrecht, Jane and Sebastian Dunn, Tara and Dave Dunn, Sharon Wewege, Heather Mylne, Sheena Hutchings, Ingrid Rix, Suzelle Moolman and friends, Michael P., Donna Cobban, Luc Michot, Anna Johansson, Ruby Passet-Gradwell, Yolanda and Alan Parry, Bessie and Athina Kotsiopolous, Liz Brunette, Elaine Aquadro, Annette Milner, Taryn Hopwood, Cindy Robertson, Joeline Stupel, Mikki Dimopoulos, Tim and Judith Brebner, Willem and Denise van Bergen, Rob Aquadro, our friends in Manchester, UK: Jessica Midlane, Helen S., Claire S., Catherine O., Catherine J., Jill B and friends, Kara W., Melissa T., Nicola C., Rachel Mc., Sir Richard Branson, Anonymous friends at New Beginnings Clinic, anonymous parents from Monterey Pre-Primary School.
About 3 months ago I jokingly asked that if anyone knew Sir Richard Branson, to please ask him to assist us in bringing clothing for safe and baby houses from the UK. Jessica Midlane and her friends from Manchester had collected for us but we had no way of bringing it over as we do not have the funds for shipping.
Elaine Aquadro is a neighbour and her son Rob works for a company owned by Richard Branson, and miraculously, we were put together and he is sponsoring the shipment for us. These items left the UK via boat on the 20 August and should be in Cape Town in about 3 weeks’ time.
I am over the moon and yet again, dumbfounded at just how the world turns and how things come together and work out. Thank you so much Rob for assisting us with this problem and for all the trouble you’ve gone to on our behalf. You are indeed a hero!
Babies Born:
There were 182 babies born at the clinic in July – 109 were boys and 73 girls; all perfect and beautiful.
Mom and Baby Packs
Thank you for the beautiful clothes for the babies as well as the items for the mom packs. They are indeed very much appreciated. We have been privileged in receiving a small quantity of panties for moms that we’ve given to the sisters in charge – these will be given to the moms who desperately need them.
We are still appealing for more medium sized panties [either washable or disposable] as we never have enough for the moms.
Dry goods pantry
The support for the dry goods pantry has been great again – I laugh sometimes, because our freezer [Thank you Sheena] is filled with soups [thank you Yolanda and friends] and not just the 40 we normally receive.
Medical Equipment
About 2 years ago I had discussions with UNICEF about sponsoring medical equipment for the clinic, but due to reasons beyond my control, this fell through. Yolanda Parry has been in contact with a group who has indicated that they’ll be supplying Retreat Maternity with some of the much needed medical equipment. I’ll fill you in on more about this next month as I do not have the details yet.
Breastfeeding Clinic
The need for information on breastfeeding for moms at the clinic has been noted and with the initiative taken by Antoinette, one of the sisters at the clinic, she has started a breastfeeding clinic. The first formal breastfeeding clinic was on Friday, 6th August, and from what I hear, the response was very positive.
The passion with which Antoinette approaches this, is admirable; and it does take determination for a mom who is struggling to breastfeed, to continue. Antoinette is helping moms give their babies the best first defense in life.
City of Cape Town
The CoCT has, in recognition of Women’s Day, arranged for women over the age of 30 to have free cervical/pap-smears.
One of the venues where this will be held is the Day Hospital next to the Retreat Maternity Clinic. This has been advertised far and wide in Cape Town but the response at the Retreat Maternity Clinic has been an excited hub of telling everyone to come. Cervical smears are so important and many women forget to have this done. Cervical cancer is a silent killer and all it takes is one pap smear every year to ensure your health.
67 Days on Mandela Day – 18 July
A Huge thank you to all of you who participated in making the lives of those who are less fortunate better by offering 67 minutes [and more in most cases] of your time on this day. Thank you especially to Tracey and Sean Fraser and friends for organising food for 300 homeless people on this day. You guys are selfless beyond words and are an example to all of us.
Women’s Day – 9 August
Lilian Ngoyi, Bertha Mashaba and Helen Joseph were 3 of 20 000 women who marched to the Union Buildings in protest of the Pass Laws on 9 August 1956.
Today, we pay tribute to women who changed the course of South African history by celebrating Women’s Day; but also to recognise that women are silently capable of changing the world.
Suzelle Moolman is a friend of mine and has been working with a group of her friends at Place of Hope in Crawford, a place of safety for abused women and children. Suzelle is organising a pamper day in honour of Women’s Day for Saturday 14th August. The women and teenaged girls who live there will have a short aerobics class, will have their hair washed and styled, listen to a talk by a psychologist, and be given small pamper bags.
If anyone is interested in helping out on the day, it will be from 9am to 2pm, on Saturday 14th August – please contact me.
On a personal note
I will be without email from the 23 August up until about the 3 September. You will only be able to contact me on my mobile phone.
I will be doing a collection week during 23 August to 27 August, so please call me to arrange collection or drop off if you can.
Also, I will only be collecting items for the mom and baby packs as well as food items for the dry goods pantry .Please keep the second hand clothing until next month’s collection week.
Have fun this week, and surround yourselves with positive things … Life is good!
Lots of love
Norah Papanicolaou
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Update June 2010
Hello Everybody
June has been a very exciting month with the World Cup which my family and I have been following with much enthusiasm. Needless to say, we have now started supporting the underdogs due to the fact that our original teams didn’t make the finals.But that is just the way of life and we wish the remaining teams well!
If you haven’t yet done so, the fanwalk is an experience to have – even if you’re not into soccer or haven’t got tickets for the game, I encourage you to walk the 2,5km to the stadium and back and just experience the GEES!
Thank you to the following contributors:
Arlene Johansson, Dr Lara Smith, Bronwyn Hopwood, Marlene Helfrecht, Jane and Sebastian Dunn, Tara and Dave Dunn, Sharon Wewege, Heather Mylne, Sheena Hutchings, Ingrid Rix, Michael P., Donna Cobban, Luc Michot, Anna Johansson, Ruby Passet-Gradwell, Yolanda Parry, Roz Hoek, Nikki Haywood, Lou van Selm, Theas Bessie and Athina Kotsopolous, Jenny Morkel, Elaine Aquadro, Willem and Denise van Bergen, Lesley Edkins, Fran, Ros Leigh, Pam Cable, Annette Milner, Michelle Schneider and all the women At Curves in Westlake Business Park, Liz Brunette, Jenni Arendorf from Place of Hope, Anonymous friends from Monterey Pre-School, And anonymous friends from the New Beginnings Clinic in Meadowridge.
As you know, the second hand clothing and household items we receive go to places of safety and/or children’s homes. There was a devastating fire in Hout Bay on 14th June and we were able to assist in donating, through word of mouth and with the kind donation from the clients and management, Michelle Schneider and staff at Curves in Westlake Business Park, much needed clothing. All the items are distributed by disaster management and the management of informal settlements. Thank you to everyone who contributed – I do not have your names, but know that many families were aided. Thank you also to Liz Brunette and Sheena Hutchings for assisting in putting the right people together.
Babies born:
There were 190 babies born during June at the clinic. 96 were boys and 94 girls.
I am often devastated when I find that the age of the mothers are 15 or 16 years old – one can only sympathise with this because in my mind, no 15 or 16 year old has planned that pregnancy.
I understand that the law and constitution allows for children from the age of 12 to have access to contraceptives as well as have abortions without parental consent, but I still question that somewhere along the line these pregnant young girls are not always getting the help they need. It is a very sad and desperate reality in our country.
Mom and baby packs
We have had wonderful support for items for mom and baby packs. Unfortunately, we still fall short on panties. The panties are included in the Mom packs, but often the women in labour only require a panty.
We are also short of baby grows – unfortunately the amount we receive per month is not enough to cover the need.
Dry goods pantry
The pantry is going really well and with the addition of 3 people making soup, our freezer has remained full this past month.
The Zoe Project’s international connections:
Tracey has informed me that the Zoe Project in Mexico [which has been going for about 18 months now] are having their first conference. I am jealous! But very pleased that the Zoe Sacks [mom and baby packs] as they call them, are doing well and that our humble project
has reached international shores.
We will be registering as an NGO and will keep you updated as to what that means for us.
67 minutes on Mandela day
Sunday, 18th July is recognised as Mandela Day. We have been participating in a number of projects with other NGO’s and community based organisations
And people who have formed groups to do something for 67 minutes on this day for someone who is in need.
I know I’m preaching to the choir, but I would like to encourage you to find a cause and spend 67 minutes in aid of someone in need on this day. It is an enriching and humbling experience.
Please let me know what you plan to do, and enjoy the day.
Support structures
I’ve said this before – we continue to grow because of the wonderful support and encouragement we receive from all of you.
It is vital that any person or organisation or group of people form support structures with like-minded people who understand that doing what they do is for the greater good.
Thank you for the support and encouragement.
We also cannot do what we do at the Zoe Project without knowledge and continued personal growth and continued information.
It is easy to say that one can counsel another, but without the correct information [practical and emotional/psychological], one cannot really help another.
We are in a privileged situation that we have the right back up and the right information to impart on the clients we see. Thank you to the many nameless people who contribute their methods of best practice as well as assisting us to do our work well.
Without the experience of the volunteers and counselors we would not be able to help as many as we do.
I wish you all well – enjoy the last days of the holidays and the soccer.
Stay warm and much love
Norah Papanicolaou
June has been a very exciting month with the World Cup which my family and I have been following with much enthusiasm. Needless to say, we have now started supporting the underdogs due to the fact that our original teams didn’t make the finals.But that is just the way of life and we wish the remaining teams well!
If you haven’t yet done so, the fanwalk is an experience to have – even if you’re not into soccer or haven’t got tickets for the game, I encourage you to walk the 2,5km to the stadium and back and just experience the GEES!
Thank you to the following contributors:
Arlene Johansson, Dr Lara Smith, Bronwyn Hopwood, Marlene Helfrecht, Jane and Sebastian Dunn, Tara and Dave Dunn, Sharon Wewege, Heather Mylne, Sheena Hutchings, Ingrid Rix, Michael P., Donna Cobban, Luc Michot, Anna Johansson, Ruby Passet-Gradwell, Yolanda Parry, Roz Hoek, Nikki Haywood, Lou van Selm, Theas Bessie and Athina Kotsopolous, Jenny Morkel, Elaine Aquadro, Willem and Denise van Bergen, Lesley Edkins, Fran, Ros Leigh, Pam Cable, Annette Milner, Michelle Schneider and all the women At Curves in Westlake Business Park, Liz Brunette, Jenni Arendorf from Place of Hope, Anonymous friends from Monterey Pre-School, And anonymous friends from the New Beginnings Clinic in Meadowridge.
As you know, the second hand clothing and household items we receive go to places of safety and/or children’s homes. There was a devastating fire in Hout Bay on 14th June and we were able to assist in donating, through word of mouth and with the kind donation from the clients and management, Michelle Schneider and staff at Curves in Westlake Business Park, much needed clothing. All the items are distributed by disaster management and the management of informal settlements. Thank you to everyone who contributed – I do not have your names, but know that many families were aided. Thank you also to Liz Brunette and Sheena Hutchings for assisting in putting the right people together.
Babies born:
There were 190 babies born during June at the clinic. 96 were boys and 94 girls.
I am often devastated when I find that the age of the mothers are 15 or 16 years old – one can only sympathise with this because in my mind, no 15 or 16 year old has planned that pregnancy.
I understand that the law and constitution allows for children from the age of 12 to have access to contraceptives as well as have abortions without parental consent, but I still question that somewhere along the line these pregnant young girls are not always getting the help they need. It is a very sad and desperate reality in our country.
Mom and baby packs
We have had wonderful support for items for mom and baby packs. Unfortunately, we still fall short on panties. The panties are included in the Mom packs, but often the women in labour only require a panty.
We are also short of baby grows – unfortunately the amount we receive per month is not enough to cover the need.
Dry goods pantry
The pantry is going really well and with the addition of 3 people making soup, our freezer has remained full this past month.
The Zoe Project’s international connections:
Tracey has informed me that the Zoe Project in Mexico [which has been going for about 18 months now] are having their first conference. I am jealous! But very pleased that the Zoe Sacks [mom and baby packs] as they call them, are doing well and that our humble project
has reached international shores.
We will be registering as an NGO and will keep you updated as to what that means for us.
67 minutes on Mandela day
Sunday, 18th July is recognised as Mandela Day. We have been participating in a number of projects with other NGO’s and community based organisations
And people who have formed groups to do something for 67 minutes on this day for someone who is in need.
I know I’m preaching to the choir, but I would like to encourage you to find a cause and spend 67 minutes in aid of someone in need on this day. It is an enriching and humbling experience.
Please let me know what you plan to do, and enjoy the day.
Support structures
I’ve said this before – we continue to grow because of the wonderful support and encouragement we receive from all of you.
It is vital that any person or organisation or group of people form support structures with like-minded people who understand that doing what they do is for the greater good.
Thank you for the support and encouragement.
We also cannot do what we do at the Zoe Project without knowledge and continued personal growth and continued information.
It is easy to say that one can counsel another, but without the correct information [practical and emotional/psychological], one cannot really help another.
We are in a privileged situation that we have the right back up and the right information to impart on the clients we see. Thank you to the many nameless people who contribute their methods of best practice as well as assisting us to do our work well.
Without the experience of the volunteers and counselors we would not be able to help as many as we do.
I wish you all well – enjoy the last days of the holidays and the soccer.
Stay warm and much love
Norah Papanicolaou
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