Hello Everybody
I hope you’ve all enjoyed a little break over the school holidays. Having the children at home for three weeks was not enough for me – I always think it is so unfair to send the children back to school when we’ve spent such beautiful time together.
A huge thank you to the following contributors:
Arlene J., Dr Lara S., Bronwyn H., Marlene H., Jane and Sebastian D., Tara and Dave D., Jo D., Lorette G., Nikki A., Sandy S.,Sharon W., Heather M., Sheena and Roly H., Meg and Luke C., Sean and Tracey F., Rene and Samuel G., Luc Michot C., Donna C., Michael P., Kirsten H., Annette C-N., Johnathan A., Jo A., Antoinette D., Melica M., Gary, Andre and Becky B., Leigh-Anne G., Brent G., Amy and Andre B., Albert B., Joan R., Val D., Ann R., Geoff H., Lynn M., Alison T., Linda M., Liz B., Ronnie and Vanessa W., Thabane K., Dorreen and Jackie from Ferndale Nurseries, Mica on Kendal Road and Tony M.
The past month has been a very busy one. The contributions for the Retreat Maternity Unit have been tremendous. The dry-goods pantry has been filled once again for the month by YOU GUYS. The fact that the food being supplied by government has been diminished to a dry provita and a cup of soup a day has not demoralised the nursing staff at the centre, because they know that the food we supply is enough for the mothers who go there to give birth and for those who stay as Kangaroo moms. The nursing staff feel that when they feed the patients who have had nothing to eat that they can supply a much better health care service once they’ve fed them. The care they feel for the patients who come to the centre is tangible.
It is always tremendous to hand out the baby and mom packs to those women who have nothing! I thank you for the care you’ve taken in selecting each item for these women and their precious little babies. Dignity is the last thing that can be taken away from anyone, and the joy and absolute gratitude that they have when they dress their little bundle in these items, is overwhelming.
I would also like to especially thank Mrs. Liz Brunette who is the chair of the Constantia Hills Residents Association. She contacted me on 16th July to enquire whether I knew of a place where the residents of Constantia Hills could go to spend 67 Minutes on Mandela Day. Well, she very quickly organized a group of people to assist in the day and to contribute things to make Place of Hope in Crawford, a better place.
The residents [named amongst the names above] came through and they cleaned the crèche, painted the kitchen cupboards and planted a vegetable garden – 2, in fact. A large number of bedding [duvets and covers] and other small household items, clothing for the 30 women and 34 children who live there were supplied and the residents of Place of Hope were very grateful for this.
It is not said lightly when I say that I do see little miracles happen every day!
Births at the Clinic
There were 211 births at the clinic in July 2009; each child precious and beautiful and with a purpose in life.
Information Empowers!
We are moving forward in leaps and bounds and the message against child sexual abuse is spreading. The workshops that have been developed are helping children become empowered and learn more. The workbook [C.I.A. Kids’ Workbook] is not only a book for children to learn about safety, but it is also being used as a tool for facilitators to assist the children using it.
Disclosure of child sexual abuse is not easy and the workshops are opportunities for children to disclose safely and with trained people.
August is women’s month and another workshop by Information Empowers! will be presented at a workshop for women. We are privileged that victim empowerment groups are learning more about our workshops and that news is spreading.
FCS - Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Units
I received the following email from MP Debbie Schaffer and it is with great happiness that I share it with you that these specialized units are being reinstated throughout the country.
The Child Protection Units [CPU] were disbanded in 2006 and moved out to the local police stations. This caused them to become ineffective. The return of the FCS Units is something many South Africans have fought for and it is now happening.
Newly appointed National Commissioner of Police, Bheki Cele, stated on the Redi Direko Show on Monday that his strategy will be to empower these specialised units once again and ensure that they work closely with communities. We wait and pray that this is the strategy and that it will be enforced.
STATEMENT BY DEBBIE SCHAFER, MP
DA DEPUTY SHADOW MINISTER OF POLICE
Return of specialised FCS units is well overdue
Release, immediate: Wednesday, July 22, 2009
The Democratic Alliance (DA) applauds today’s announcement that Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) units will be reintroduced. The DA has repeatedly, since 2006, advocated the reintroduction of FCS units, even while the ANC has set about centralising the entire Police Service, and disbanding specialised and semi-autonomous units. These specialised units are central to our safety and security policy framework, and their return is well overdue.
Spread the word and keep the message going…
Thank you to those who have already sent these updates on to colleagues and friends. This is how things happen! Incredible, caring people who want to make a change in the lives of ordinary South Africans can and have made a difference already – just by sending it on. You never know if a friend of a friend is in a position to do something to help.
I leave you with this quote which I absolutely love…
In answering the question: “What is my obligation to the world?” CG Jung said:
“We owe ethical behaviour so that we may live in a society which supports each person’s possibilities. And we owe the world the contribution of our best selves. It is in our uniqueness, our special talent or capacity or calling that we add to the richness of the world.”
Please contact me with feedback or suggestions.
Enjoy the month and stay warm.
Lots of love
Norah Papanicolaou
Founder
Information Empowers!
because every child matters
and
for The Zoe Project
norah@xsinet.co.za
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
7 July Update by Norah Papanicolaou
Hello Everybody
My humble apologies for only sending the update now. I’m running a couple of projects at the same time and sometimes it is difficult for me to get to everything at once.
It is July holidays and before we know it, it is Christmas. I hope you have all taken some time to spend with your family.
Thank you to the following contributors:
Arlene J., Dr Lara S., Bronwyn H., Marlene H., Jane and Sebastian D., Nikki A., Sandy S.,
Sharon W., Heather M., Sheena H., Michael P., Anna J., Kirsten H., Annette C-N., Johnathan A., Guy W., Constantia Pharmacy, Sue [New Beginnings Clinic], Julie and Greg B., Samuel G. and Luke C.
Your contributions this month have again proved to me that magical moments and miracles do happen. The amount of clothing and household items that
we have been able to give to the safe houses this month has been great. Funny how I had just enough toys for the children at Place of Hope – there are 32 little children
and we had 34 toys. Each of these children now has something of their own to cuddle and name. I have also appealed to everyone that if they know a plumber or a plumbing company who would assist with fixing the giant leak at Place of Hope in Crawford to give me a call, and I know that somewhere someone will assist us in helping them out.
The food that has gone to the Retreat Maternity Clinic is indeed a blessing. We had a meeting last month and we were told that from the beginning of July 2009
the moms will only be given 1 dry Provita and a cup of soup as the meal for the day by the clinic. They have been given a couple of packets of Oats-so-Easy and a box of Jungle Oats and this must last through the month. This boggles the mind as this is supposed to be sustenance for moms who have given birth as well as the Kangaroo moms who are breastfeeding their babies.
The freezer is in place but at the moment it only holds 40 x 250gram margarine tubs filled with soup. I know that we will get someone to make more soup to be frozen and given to the women.
I would like to thank Guy Wood and the Constantia Pharmacy especially this month, because they have donated some incontinence sheets. The clinic had run out and their delivery wasn’t scheduled until a couple of days later. The nursing staff was assisting moms giving birth and they had nothing to put under the babies when they were born. Guy and his team helped us in giving them a more hygienic entry into life. I think it is wonderful that local businesses are recognizing the need in poorer communities.
Information Day on 13th June 2009
Thank you to those of you who joined us. I know you have all learnt a bit more about the Zoe Project and everything we are involved in – more than I can ever write in an email.
To those who couldn’t make it, here is a little update.
The Zoe Project is growing arms and legs – as with all good things.
Bethany from BABY SAFE told us about the safe for babies. Let me explain. With the magnitude of babies being dumped in bins and toilets and open fields, an engineer in the States came up with the idea of creating a safe place for moms who don’t want their babies, to safely leave the babies. This is not something that is advertised as it is a sensitive issue and we don’t want people to think that this is now a ‘way out’. Baby safe was engineered to work in the following way:
It is located in Fish Hoek and when someone opens the door and places the baby inside the ‘safe’, a sensor goes off which is attached to an alarm system. The alarm system works like the one you have at home. It starts phoning telephone numbers. There are at least 3 people on call at a time and the first call it makes is to a private security company who is there within 3 minutes. So, the baby who has now been abandoned is not alone for longer than 3 minutes.
The other people who are contacted by the ‘sensor’ are emergency care and the counselors who place the baby in emergency foster care or hospital – should there be a need to do so.
This is the most incredible technology I’ve heard of in a long time. There are only 2 baby safes in South Africa. The one in Fish Hoek hasn’t been used yet, but it is there as an alternative option to just dumping your unwanted baby in a field.
Tracey spoke about the wonderful help we’ve received from members of King of Kings Baptist Church. They have undertaken to look after very young moms and their babies, and re-introduce them to the community after they have given birth and in some cases, gone through rehabilitation. It is not easy for us to understand about the difficulties experienced by someone who is in a state of despair. The ladies at the church take the young girls into their care, counsel them and help them find their place in the world again. They are doing a tremendous job and are filling a need where no one else is available to help.
Sister Lynda Smith, Manager of the Retreat MOU spoke about the wonderful support that her staff has received from the Zoe Project personnel - Just making their work so much easier. The gratitude of these women who work so hard and under such difficult situations is over whelming. They shine even under pressure and it is all because of working together with caring people. Without that, the Zoe Project would not be as successful as it is. I would like to add that each of you is helping in this. Please remember this on the days that you’re feeling down or not sure about yourself. You are an incredible support, anonymous though it is, to an incredible bunch of women.
A Radio Station from the United States has come to hear about the Zoe Project. They have contacted us and are interested promoting our cause in the States. The technicalities of this still need to be worked out and it will take a while before anything materializes. But it is great news as the Zoe Project and the work we do is gaining an international name.
I invited an honoured guest, DA ward counselor Denis Joseph joined us at the information day. He has rallied the DA Ladies Alliance to provide soup twice a month to the people who visit the Retreat Maternity clinic. With approximately 450 registrations per month and the additional average of 200 births per month, that is a lot of people to feed. Thank you Denis and Harriet for your sincere interest in the community and wanting to make a difference where you can. The first soup day was Friday, 3rd July and according to Sister Lynda, it went really well.
Our vision…
The ultimate vision and goal of The Zoe Project is to have a safe house and baby house of our own. There are a hand full of baby houses and safe houses in Cape Town. I visit them often and many of them are in a state of disrepair. They all need funding, they all need help. They are all providing an incredible service to humanity and improving the lives of so many people. Our goal is to provide this. And it will happen when the time is ready and everything is in place.
The Zoe Project as an example…
We endeavour to assist other clinics in other areas to do the same work we do at Retreat. This is huge – the main criteria for this working, is that people who are passionate about helping others need to work together. This is the main ingredient of our success so far.
Births at the clinic this month….
There were 214 births at the clinic during June 09. I have been privileged to witness births and I am telling you, it IS a portal for souls to enter this world. Watching a baby being born is a miracle that cannot be compared to anything. The endorphins that pulse through the body of the mother enable them to go through the pain of birth and immediately love that child. That baby crying for the first time is the most beautiful sound in the world.
Information Empowers!
Although Information Empowers! is separate from the Zoe Project, we link in because of the people we help. I am proud to say that Information Empowers has developed workshops about child sexual abuse for children and adults which are currently being used by 3 Victim Empowerment groups in the Western Cape. I have also just finished a workbook that ties in with the workshops and it has proved to be an additional tool in fighting child sexual abuse and helping victims and non-victims become empowered. There are a couple of workshops and workbooks in development at the moment and it is all very exciting knowing that we are helping those who are most vulnerable. Thank you so much to those people who have been supporting me with their encouragement and love.
I hope I haven’t left anything out. I know this has been a very long email filled with news, and I’d like to receive feedback. Anything positive you would like to share with the moms or the staff of the clinic, please email me and I will pass the message on to them.
I would like to leave you with this thought:
Individuals CAN make the difference – even if you think that your little bit is too little: it is helping someone with nothing. You ARE making a difference.
Thank you and lots of love and many blessings
Norah Papanicolaou
For the Zoe Project
Information Empowers!
Because every child matters.
norah@xsinet.co.za
My humble apologies for only sending the update now. I’m running a couple of projects at the same time and sometimes it is difficult for me to get to everything at once.
It is July holidays and before we know it, it is Christmas. I hope you have all taken some time to spend with your family.
Thank you to the following contributors:
Arlene J., Dr Lara S., Bronwyn H., Marlene H., Jane and Sebastian D., Nikki A., Sandy S.,
Sharon W., Heather M., Sheena H., Michael P., Anna J., Kirsten H., Annette C-N., Johnathan A., Guy W., Constantia Pharmacy, Sue [New Beginnings Clinic], Julie and Greg B., Samuel G. and Luke C.
Your contributions this month have again proved to me that magical moments and miracles do happen. The amount of clothing and household items that
we have been able to give to the safe houses this month has been great. Funny how I had just enough toys for the children at Place of Hope – there are 32 little children
and we had 34 toys. Each of these children now has something of their own to cuddle and name. I have also appealed to everyone that if they know a plumber or a plumbing company who would assist with fixing the giant leak at Place of Hope in Crawford to give me a call, and I know that somewhere someone will assist us in helping them out.
The food that has gone to the Retreat Maternity Clinic is indeed a blessing. We had a meeting last month and we were told that from the beginning of July 2009
the moms will only be given 1 dry Provita and a cup of soup as the meal for the day by the clinic. They have been given a couple of packets of Oats-so-Easy and a box of Jungle Oats and this must last through the month. This boggles the mind as this is supposed to be sustenance for moms who have given birth as well as the Kangaroo moms who are breastfeeding their babies.
The freezer is in place but at the moment it only holds 40 x 250gram margarine tubs filled with soup. I know that we will get someone to make more soup to be frozen and given to the women.
I would like to thank Guy Wood and the Constantia Pharmacy especially this month, because they have donated some incontinence sheets. The clinic had run out and their delivery wasn’t scheduled until a couple of days later. The nursing staff was assisting moms giving birth and they had nothing to put under the babies when they were born. Guy and his team helped us in giving them a more hygienic entry into life. I think it is wonderful that local businesses are recognizing the need in poorer communities.
Information Day on 13th June 2009
Thank you to those of you who joined us. I know you have all learnt a bit more about the Zoe Project and everything we are involved in – more than I can ever write in an email.
To those who couldn’t make it, here is a little update.
The Zoe Project is growing arms and legs – as with all good things.
Bethany from BABY SAFE told us about the safe for babies. Let me explain. With the magnitude of babies being dumped in bins and toilets and open fields, an engineer in the States came up with the idea of creating a safe place for moms who don’t want their babies, to safely leave the babies. This is not something that is advertised as it is a sensitive issue and we don’t want people to think that this is now a ‘way out’. Baby safe was engineered to work in the following way:
It is located in Fish Hoek and when someone opens the door and places the baby inside the ‘safe’, a sensor goes off which is attached to an alarm system. The alarm system works like the one you have at home. It starts phoning telephone numbers. There are at least 3 people on call at a time and the first call it makes is to a private security company who is there within 3 minutes. So, the baby who has now been abandoned is not alone for longer than 3 minutes.
The other people who are contacted by the ‘sensor’ are emergency care and the counselors who place the baby in emergency foster care or hospital – should there be a need to do so.
This is the most incredible technology I’ve heard of in a long time. There are only 2 baby safes in South Africa. The one in Fish Hoek hasn’t been used yet, but it is there as an alternative option to just dumping your unwanted baby in a field.
Tracey spoke about the wonderful help we’ve received from members of King of Kings Baptist Church. They have undertaken to look after very young moms and their babies, and re-introduce them to the community after they have given birth and in some cases, gone through rehabilitation. It is not easy for us to understand about the difficulties experienced by someone who is in a state of despair. The ladies at the church take the young girls into their care, counsel them and help them find their place in the world again. They are doing a tremendous job and are filling a need where no one else is available to help.
Sister Lynda Smith, Manager of the Retreat MOU spoke about the wonderful support that her staff has received from the Zoe Project personnel - Just making their work so much easier. The gratitude of these women who work so hard and under such difficult situations is over whelming. They shine even under pressure and it is all because of working together with caring people. Without that, the Zoe Project would not be as successful as it is. I would like to add that each of you is helping in this. Please remember this on the days that you’re feeling down or not sure about yourself. You are an incredible support, anonymous though it is, to an incredible bunch of women.
A Radio Station from the United States has come to hear about the Zoe Project. They have contacted us and are interested promoting our cause in the States. The technicalities of this still need to be worked out and it will take a while before anything materializes. But it is great news as the Zoe Project and the work we do is gaining an international name.
I invited an honoured guest, DA ward counselor Denis Joseph joined us at the information day. He has rallied the DA Ladies Alliance to provide soup twice a month to the people who visit the Retreat Maternity clinic. With approximately 450 registrations per month and the additional average of 200 births per month, that is a lot of people to feed. Thank you Denis and Harriet for your sincere interest in the community and wanting to make a difference where you can. The first soup day was Friday, 3rd July and according to Sister Lynda, it went really well.
Our vision…
The ultimate vision and goal of The Zoe Project is to have a safe house and baby house of our own. There are a hand full of baby houses and safe houses in Cape Town. I visit them often and many of them are in a state of disrepair. They all need funding, they all need help. They are all providing an incredible service to humanity and improving the lives of so many people. Our goal is to provide this. And it will happen when the time is ready and everything is in place.
The Zoe Project as an example…
We endeavour to assist other clinics in other areas to do the same work we do at Retreat. This is huge – the main criteria for this working, is that people who are passionate about helping others need to work together. This is the main ingredient of our success so far.
Births at the clinic this month….
There were 214 births at the clinic during June 09. I have been privileged to witness births and I am telling you, it IS a portal for souls to enter this world. Watching a baby being born is a miracle that cannot be compared to anything. The endorphins that pulse through the body of the mother enable them to go through the pain of birth and immediately love that child. That baby crying for the first time is the most beautiful sound in the world.
Information Empowers!
Although Information Empowers! is separate from the Zoe Project, we link in because of the people we help. I am proud to say that Information Empowers has developed workshops about child sexual abuse for children and adults which are currently being used by 3 Victim Empowerment groups in the Western Cape. I have also just finished a workbook that ties in with the workshops and it has proved to be an additional tool in fighting child sexual abuse and helping victims and non-victims become empowered. There are a couple of workshops and workbooks in development at the moment and it is all very exciting knowing that we are helping those who are most vulnerable. Thank you so much to those people who have been supporting me with their encouragement and love.
I hope I haven’t left anything out. I know this has been a very long email filled with news, and I’d like to receive feedback. Anything positive you would like to share with the moms or the staff of the clinic, please email me and I will pass the message on to them.
I would like to leave you with this thought:
Individuals CAN make the difference – even if you think that your little bit is too little: it is helping someone with nothing. You ARE making a difference.
Thank you and lots of love and many blessings
Norah Papanicolaou
For the Zoe Project
Information Empowers!
Because every child matters.
norah@xsinet.co.za
Thursday, June 4, 2009
UPDATE 01 JUNE 2009
Hello Everybody
Welcome to June 2009. I am inspired on a daily basis by the amount of people who want to help those in a less fortunate
position than themselves. I am inspired by small kindnesses that are shown daily and I am grateful for being part of a humanity
where people still care enough to want to do something to change the lives of others.
Thank you to the following contributors…
Arlene J, Dr Lara S, Bronwyn H, Marlene H., Alexandra F., Jane and Sebastian D., Lorette G.,
Sandy S., Sharon W., Heather M., Colleen W., Rene G., Donna C., Anne W., Anna J., Kirsten H.,
Annette C-N., Johnathan A., Fiona B., Michael P., Anonymous Friends at the New Beginnings Clinic AND Anonymous Friends at Monterey Pre-Primary School
Thank you for your contributions. No matter how small, they are well received and very much appreciated.
A Personal Acknowledgment to a Special Friend…
I would like to acknowledge a friend of mine, who has taken the initiative and started a sandwich tray for the HIV/AIDS patients at the False Bay hospital. She makes peanut butter and jam sandwiches DAILY and personally gives it to those patients who wait to receive their medication. She has also taken it upon herself to provide paper and crayons
to keep the children busy while they wait for their mothers at the hospital. Thank you Jane D. for what you are doing.
I know that you are a very humble person and I thought that some acknowledgement and voice of appreciation would be in order.
Births at the clinic during May 09…
There were 205 babies born during May – again no breakdown of boy-to-girl ratio, but yes, more boys than girls when I am there!
The age of the youngest mother is 16 years old, [and there was only one 16-year old last month] and the oldest mom, is 42.
Safe houses and baby houses…
I don’t know if any of you saw the article in the Cape Times a couple of weeks back. It was about Sisters’ Incorporated in Kenilworth.
This is one of the safe houses we use for our clients. Sisters’ is one of the better facilities in that, amongst other things, receive food on a regular basis from
corporate contributors. The article dealt with the fact that their contributors are pulling back and that they are struggling with expenses.
At the same time, thanks to the generosity of your contributions, they are able to assist families who have escaped from violent situations
to establish a new life for themselves. Continued donations of household equipment, linen, cutlery and crockery, as well as 2nd hand baby
and women’s clothes help the safe houses support these women and children.
Please keep these items and our safe houses and baby houses in mind when you do clean-ups of your cupboards.
[Sisters’ Incorporated is one of a couple of safe houses that we partner. We also make use of the baby houses available in Cape Town.]
Pass on the message…
Our message has been passed on to people in France! I am not saying more about this as yet, but I have been in contact with someone
who shows interest in the Zoe Project and will continue to fill you in should more come of it.
So, please continue to send on these emails to your friends and colleagues and family – you never know who may be able to help.
There is a lovely long weekend coming up in June. Remember, the kids are off school on Monday 15th June. Spend time together, enjoy your families and have fun.
Until next time, lots of love and warmth to you all
Norah Papanicolaou
Welcome to June 2009. I am inspired on a daily basis by the amount of people who want to help those in a less fortunate
position than themselves. I am inspired by small kindnesses that are shown daily and I am grateful for being part of a humanity
where people still care enough to want to do something to change the lives of others.
Thank you to the following contributors…
Arlene J, Dr Lara S, Bronwyn H, Marlene H., Alexandra F., Jane and Sebastian D., Lorette G.,
Sandy S., Sharon W., Heather M., Colleen W., Rene G., Donna C., Anne W., Anna J., Kirsten H.,
Annette C-N., Johnathan A., Fiona B., Michael P., Anonymous Friends at the New Beginnings Clinic AND Anonymous Friends at Monterey Pre-Primary School
Thank you for your contributions. No matter how small, they are well received and very much appreciated.
A Personal Acknowledgment to a Special Friend…
I would like to acknowledge a friend of mine, who has taken the initiative and started a sandwich tray for the HIV/AIDS patients at the False Bay hospital. She makes peanut butter and jam sandwiches DAILY and personally gives it to those patients who wait to receive their medication. She has also taken it upon herself to provide paper and crayons
to keep the children busy while they wait for their mothers at the hospital. Thank you Jane D. for what you are doing.
I know that you are a very humble person and I thought that some acknowledgement and voice of appreciation would be in order.
Births at the clinic during May 09…
There were 205 babies born during May – again no breakdown of boy-to-girl ratio, but yes, more boys than girls when I am there!
The age of the youngest mother is 16 years old, [and there was only one 16-year old last month] and the oldest mom, is 42.
Safe houses and baby houses…
I don’t know if any of you saw the article in the Cape Times a couple of weeks back. It was about Sisters’ Incorporated in Kenilworth.
This is one of the safe houses we use for our clients. Sisters’ is one of the better facilities in that, amongst other things, receive food on a regular basis from
corporate contributors. The article dealt with the fact that their contributors are pulling back and that they are struggling with expenses.
At the same time, thanks to the generosity of your contributions, they are able to assist families who have escaped from violent situations
to establish a new life for themselves. Continued donations of household equipment, linen, cutlery and crockery, as well as 2nd hand baby
and women’s clothes help the safe houses support these women and children.
Please keep these items and our safe houses and baby houses in mind when you do clean-ups of your cupboards.
[Sisters’ Incorporated is one of a couple of safe houses that we partner. We also make use of the baby houses available in Cape Town.]
Pass on the message…
Our message has been passed on to people in France! I am not saying more about this as yet, but I have been in contact with someone
who shows interest in the Zoe Project and will continue to fill you in should more come of it.
So, please continue to send on these emails to your friends and colleagues and family – you never know who may be able to help.
There is a lovely long weekend coming up in June. Remember, the kids are off school on Monday 15th June. Spend time together, enjoy your families and have fun.
Until next time, lots of love and warmth to you all
Norah Papanicolaou
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Update 19th May 09 - This is why we help those who can't help themselves right now.
Hello Everybody
May month is here and it has been a bit of a bumpy ride trying to make up all the days of holiday during April.
Thank you so much to the following contributors…
Arlene J, Jane and Sebastian D, Lorette G, Sandy S, Sharon W, Heather M, Ingrid R, Dr Lara S,
Bronwyn H, Marlene H, Rene G, Donna C, Michael P, Tamlin and Benjamin B, Claudine G, Anna J, Kirsten H, Annette C-N, Johnathan A, Jo D, The Anonymous Parents At Monterey Pre-Primary, The Anonymous Friends at the New Beginnings Baby Clinic.
Thank you for the contributions – you have made the difference in the lives of people who don’t have much and who are going through really tough times… for example:
The 17 year old having her 2nd child by her own father – both kids removed and given up for adoption
The heroin addicted, 16 year old who lay with labour pains in a semi-comatose state
The mother who decides to give her 4th child up for adoption because she cannot afford another and her husband is on tik and she desperately
wants something better for her new baby
The 12 year old who was raped by the ‘uncle down the road’ – whose child is given up for adoption and for whom ongoing counseling is given
The fetal alcohol syndrome babies born to moms who are alcohol dependant, and who have nowhere else to go to give birth
The mom who cannot feed another child and knows that giving it up for adoption gives that child a chance in life
The countless beautiful babies born perfect and imperfect in the eyes of society – those whose lives are difficult in ways you and I cannot imagine…
I thank you on their behalf and would like to say to you all – well done!!! You are helping someone in some small way.
[I would like to add that the examples mentioned above are all getting professional help from people in the various medical and psychological fields.]
Births at the clinic …
There were 208 babies born at the Retreat Maternity Clinic in the month of April. I am still not able to give you a breakdown of
boy to girl ratio, but I have noticed that on the days I am there, there are usually more boys than girls in the ward.
Unwanted Household items…
Should you have any unwanted, working household electrical appliances, linen, curtains or good second hand clothing for women and children/babies – please let me know and I will collect them from you. These will all go to the many baby houses and safe houses that we use. One request though, please ensure that all clothing is washed and clean.
Pass on the message – spread the word…
Please continue passing on my emails to your friends and colleagues – it really helps. A lot of people who may not be able to contribute, know of others who can.
I am available to answer questions, via email or telephone. My contact details are at the bottom of each email.
Information Empowers!….
I am proud to say that I have launched the information empowers project at the Freedom Day march in Delft, on 27th April.
Thousands of people and NGO’s and NPO’s and organisations showed up to support the fight against child sexual abuse.
It was humbling walking with people from the community of Delft and hearing about the situation, particularly there.
There are many ordinary people in this specific community who do wonderful work – they just need more help.
Delft is one in many communities where this epidemic is real.
So far, I have written and developed 3 brochures which are available in English, Afrikaans and Xhosa. [3rd Brochure only in English and Afrikaans]. And there are still many in development, along with stories for children and workbooks.
Should you wish to get a copy of these brochures, please email me your snail mail address and I will post it to you.
And last, but not least, to all of you, a very Happy Mothers’ Day on Sunday.
Enjoy your children and enjoy your mothers.
Lots of love as always
Norah Papanicolaou
May month is here and it has been a bit of a bumpy ride trying to make up all the days of holiday during April.
Thank you so much to the following contributors…
Arlene J, Jane and Sebastian D, Lorette G, Sandy S, Sharon W, Heather M, Ingrid R, Dr Lara S,
Bronwyn H, Marlene H, Rene G, Donna C, Michael P, Tamlin and Benjamin B, Claudine G, Anna J, Kirsten H, Annette C-N, Johnathan A, Jo D, The Anonymous Parents At Monterey Pre-Primary, The Anonymous Friends at the New Beginnings Baby Clinic.
Thank you for the contributions – you have made the difference in the lives of people who don’t have much and who are going through really tough times… for example:
The 17 year old having her 2nd child by her own father – both kids removed and given up for adoption
The heroin addicted, 16 year old who lay with labour pains in a semi-comatose state
The mother who decides to give her 4th child up for adoption because she cannot afford another and her husband is on tik and she desperately
wants something better for her new baby
The 12 year old who was raped by the ‘uncle down the road’ – whose child is given up for adoption and for whom ongoing counseling is given
The fetal alcohol syndrome babies born to moms who are alcohol dependant, and who have nowhere else to go to give birth
The mom who cannot feed another child and knows that giving it up for adoption gives that child a chance in life
The countless beautiful babies born perfect and imperfect in the eyes of society – those whose lives are difficult in ways you and I cannot imagine…
I thank you on their behalf and would like to say to you all – well done!!! You are helping someone in some small way.
[I would like to add that the examples mentioned above are all getting professional help from people in the various medical and psychological fields.]
Births at the clinic …
There were 208 babies born at the Retreat Maternity Clinic in the month of April. I am still not able to give you a breakdown of
boy to girl ratio, but I have noticed that on the days I am there, there are usually more boys than girls in the ward.
Unwanted Household items…
Should you have any unwanted, working household electrical appliances, linen, curtains or good second hand clothing for women and children/babies – please let me know and I will collect them from you. These will all go to the many baby houses and safe houses that we use. One request though, please ensure that all clothing is washed and clean.
Pass on the message – spread the word…
Please continue passing on my emails to your friends and colleagues – it really helps. A lot of people who may not be able to contribute, know of others who can.
I am available to answer questions, via email or telephone. My contact details are at the bottom of each email.
Information Empowers!….
I am proud to say that I have launched the information empowers project at the Freedom Day march in Delft, on 27th April.
Thousands of people and NGO’s and NPO’s and organisations showed up to support the fight against child sexual abuse.
It was humbling walking with people from the community of Delft and hearing about the situation, particularly there.
There are many ordinary people in this specific community who do wonderful work – they just need more help.
Delft is one in many communities where this epidemic is real.
So far, I have written and developed 3 brochures which are available in English, Afrikaans and Xhosa. [3rd Brochure only in English and Afrikaans]. And there are still many in development, along with stories for children and workbooks.
Should you wish to get a copy of these brochures, please email me your snail mail address and I will post it to you.
And last, but not least, to all of you, a very Happy Mothers’ Day on Sunday.
Enjoy your children and enjoy your mothers.
Lots of love as always
Norah Papanicolaou
Monday, March 30, 2009
30 March 09 update - birth portal, information empowers explained, household items
30 MARCH 2009 UPDATE
Hello Everybody
Thank you to the following contributors:
Arlene J, Dr Lara S, Bronwyn H, Marlene H, Frenske O, Jane and Sebastian D, Jo D., Nikki A, Sandy s, Sharon W, Heather M, The Anonymous Friends at The New Beginnings Clinic, Peter N., Rene G., Donna C and Michael P., Jennifer N., Anne W and Karen K.
Even the smallest amount of things can make the biggest difference; and you have enabled us to help many people who are in dire straits this month.
Births this month…..
During my visit to the clinic this morning [Monday, 30th March] there were 3 babies were born. Another mom and newborn came in with an ambulance – she had given birth in the ambulance to a beautiful boy. And there were a couple of moms-to-be in serious labour. The tally of babies born this month so far, before the ambulance arrived, was at 179. Tomorrow is the last day of the month and I can therefore say that 179 births is not accurate.
While standing in the labour room, with all this activity going on around me – the sisters and nursing staff explaining to the one mom that she’s not entirely dilated and, no, the baby can’t come out yet; the ambulance arriving with the baby and mom; the new arrivals [women who had gone into labour at home, or early]… the thought came to mind that this labour ward was like a portal: precious lives entering the world to embark on who knows what kind of future?
One can just take a deep breath and say thank you to the higher powers which guide us and lead us for our lives. We are privileged to be able to help other people.
Information empowers project…
I need to clarify that the information empowers project runs separately from the Zoe Project – even though the people we want to reach are the same [poorer communities in the Cape Flats] and the people we work with are essentially the same [safe houses, baby houses and eventually, schools and so forth].
The Zoe Project currently is only concentrating on the Retreat Maternity Clinic and the clients who come through there. We are in contact with the safe houses and the baby houses because of the people who come to the Retreat Clinic for assistance. Tracey is also doing work with schools where the educators have found the need for pregnancy and pregnancy prevention education. This has been an ongoing thing.
We are also in touch with an organisation called ‘Turning Point’ – they work with women who are in prison and who have decided to keep their children with them. [These kids stay with their moms in prison until the age of 5.]
Information Empowers project started off 5 years ago as a research project for myself. I have been working on and off with it, but in the past year or so, have given it a more concentrated effort.
It is basically what the name says: the intention is to inform people so that they may be empowered to live a better life through knowledge – and it is about helping the children mostly. It is about prevention and awareness of child sexual abuse, teaching children and parents what danger signs to look for and what situations to avoid, what to do and where to go for help in any abusive situation and to teach children how to be safe.
Basic ‘good parenting’ education is added in the mix. It is an ongoing project and it is very exciting to know that one’s passion can be so rewarding.
It is funny how things can grow arms and legs… one starts off with a small project, and before you know it, it has subdivided and is no longer an amoeba; but rather an octopus driving a mini-van with 10 kids in the back.
I will keep you updated as to the progress of the information empowers project.
Unwanted Household items…
Should you have any unwanted, working household electrical appliances, linen, curtains, or good second hand clothes for women and children/babies – please let me know and I will collect them from your house and deliver to the safe house or baby house where they can use it. I would just like to ask that you ensure that all clothing is washed.
Thank you to everybody who have contributed so far. The people at Saartjie Baartman Centre and Place of Hope and Sisters’ Incorporated have been overwhelmed with the kind response I’ve had to my request.
Pass on the message…
Please continue to pass this information and my contact details on to your friends, colleagues and associates. The more people who know, the more people can help! Big things start small and you are doing something valuable and important by helping.
Please phone or email me should you need any information on either the Zoe Project or the information empowers project. I am always available to help.
Lots of love
Norah
The Zoe Project
And
Information empowers
norah@xsinet.co.za
Hello Everybody
Thank you to the following contributors:
Arlene J, Dr Lara S, Bronwyn H, Marlene H, Frenske O, Jane and Sebastian D, Jo D., Nikki A, Sandy s, Sharon W, Heather M, The Anonymous Friends at The New Beginnings Clinic, Peter N., Rene G., Donna C and Michael P., Jennifer N., Anne W and Karen K.
Even the smallest amount of things can make the biggest difference; and you have enabled us to help many people who are in dire straits this month.
Births this month…..
During my visit to the clinic this morning [Monday, 30th March] there were 3 babies were born. Another mom and newborn came in with an ambulance – she had given birth in the ambulance to a beautiful boy. And there were a couple of moms-to-be in serious labour. The tally of babies born this month so far, before the ambulance arrived, was at 179. Tomorrow is the last day of the month and I can therefore say that 179 births is not accurate.
While standing in the labour room, with all this activity going on around me – the sisters and nursing staff explaining to the one mom that she’s not entirely dilated and, no, the baby can’t come out yet; the ambulance arriving with the baby and mom; the new arrivals [women who had gone into labour at home, or early]… the thought came to mind that this labour ward was like a portal: precious lives entering the world to embark on who knows what kind of future?
One can just take a deep breath and say thank you to the higher powers which guide us and lead us for our lives. We are privileged to be able to help other people.
Information empowers project…
I need to clarify that the information empowers project runs separately from the Zoe Project – even though the people we want to reach are the same [poorer communities in the Cape Flats] and the people we work with are essentially the same [safe houses, baby houses and eventually, schools and so forth].
The Zoe Project currently is only concentrating on the Retreat Maternity Clinic and the clients who come through there. We are in contact with the safe houses and the baby houses because of the people who come to the Retreat Clinic for assistance. Tracey is also doing work with schools where the educators have found the need for pregnancy and pregnancy prevention education. This has been an ongoing thing.
We are also in touch with an organisation called ‘Turning Point’ – they work with women who are in prison and who have decided to keep their children with them. [These kids stay with their moms in prison until the age of 5.]
Information Empowers project started off 5 years ago as a research project for myself. I have been working on and off with it, but in the past year or so, have given it a more concentrated effort.
It is basically what the name says: the intention is to inform people so that they may be empowered to live a better life through knowledge – and it is about helping the children mostly. It is about prevention and awareness of child sexual abuse, teaching children and parents what danger signs to look for and what situations to avoid, what to do and where to go for help in any abusive situation and to teach children how to be safe.
Basic ‘good parenting’ education is added in the mix. It is an ongoing project and it is very exciting to know that one’s passion can be so rewarding.
It is funny how things can grow arms and legs… one starts off with a small project, and before you know it, it has subdivided and is no longer an amoeba; but rather an octopus driving a mini-van with 10 kids in the back.
I will keep you updated as to the progress of the information empowers project.
Unwanted Household items…
Should you have any unwanted, working household electrical appliances, linen, curtains, or good second hand clothes for women and children/babies – please let me know and I will collect them from your house and deliver to the safe house or baby house where they can use it. I would just like to ask that you ensure that all clothing is washed.
Thank you to everybody who have contributed so far. The people at Saartjie Baartman Centre and Place of Hope and Sisters’ Incorporated have been overwhelmed with the kind response I’ve had to my request.
Pass on the message…
Please continue to pass this information and my contact details on to your friends, colleagues and associates. The more people who know, the more people can help! Big things start small and you are doing something valuable and important by helping.
Please phone or email me should you need any information on either the Zoe Project or the information empowers project. I am always available to help.
Lots of love
Norah
The Zoe Project
And
Information empowers
norah@xsinet.co.za
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
03 March 09 update - Dullah course offered
THE ZOE PROJECT UPDATE AND FEEDBACK – 3 MARCH 2009
Hi Everybody
A Huge Thank you to all who have contributed to this month’s collection drive. We have managed so much from your contributions; and every effort is appreciated.
Thank you to the following people:
Arlene J, Bronwyn H., Jane and Sebastian D., Jo D., Lisa S., Lisa S’s anonymous friends, Nikki A., Sandy S., Sheena H., Sharon W., Heather M., Colleen W., Michael P., Janine P.,
Anonymous friends at the New Beginnings Clinic
Anonymous parents at Monterey Pre-Primary School
Well done and thank you again!
Births this month…
167 babies were born at the Retreat Maternity Clinic during the month of February 2009.
Pantry and mom and baby packs…
In last month’s collection drive, I asked that you concentrate on the dry goods pantry more than the moms and baby packs. We’ve found that the food is stretched only the way it can be stretched by people who know how to do it. They would buy an onion and maybe a green pepper to fill up the pot, and then use the tinned food and rice or pasta to make sufficient food for the amount of people that night. Thank you very much to everybody who has helped us fill up the pantry and ensure that the moms who stay overnight and the Kangaroo moms now have enough food for the month of March.
Next month, we can go back to the normal list of goods required for both the Pantry; and the Moms and Baby packs.
Household items… linen… working electrical appliances…
What a wonderful contribution of household items! We’ve received a number of good-condition electrical appliances and linen and towels which will be distributed amongst our safe houses. Thank you so much – these items are given to the women who leave the safe houses after a period of time, and when they are able to support themselves and their children; and can move into an apartment or home of their own.
I have also had a tremendous response to the 2nd hand, clean baby clothes. These items [plus a couple of wonderful toys thrown in] will be distributed amongst the baby houses.
And just when we thought we had run out of baby grows, I received a BOX full of them for the baby houses. Miracles happen!
Dullah course offered….
One of the ways in which anyone can help at the Retreat Clinic is to become a Dullah, or birthing assistant. One must have time to sit with the moms while they are in labour and one cannot “run off” until the baby is born. We are in contact with a Certified Midwife who is running a Professional Accredited Dullah course between June and December this year. It will be one full Saturday per month for the 6 month period [lunch is included] and is sponsored by Johnson and Johnson. The course used to be run from Constantiaberg Medi-Clinic, however we do not know at this time where the venue will be. The cost of the course is approximately R2000.00, and for those of you who are interested, please contact me and let me know if you’d like to participate.
Information empowers update…
Fantastic news on the brochure! You all know that I have been working on this for a while and now Childline has now finally agreed to undersign it.
My main worry was the design of the brochure and printing thereof. Tracey and Sean Fraser have very kindly and very generously offered to do the design of the brochure for me!!!! You guys have absolutely NO idea how grateful I am for this wonderful gift! Thank you!
There is currently a distribution plan, but I do not want to rush ahead of myself. One thing at a time… I operate on faith and I know that from somewhere a solution for the printing of the brochure will happen.
Childline has also agreed to comment on any other child safety related documents that I produce.
Thank you to everybody who has supported and encouraged me in this very important endeavour.
Please pass on the message…
Word of mouth and the brochures which have been left at various points have helped spread the word about the Zoe Project. By passing on our introductory email to your friends [if you haven’t already] you may find one person who is able to help in some remote way. Please continue passing on the message and thank you for doing this.
Should you need brochures to hand out, let me know and I will get them to you.
Should you or any of your friends have any questions regarding either the Zoe Project or the information empowers project, please email or phone me. I am always available.
Take care of yourselves and lots of love
Hi Everybody
A Huge Thank you to all who have contributed to this month’s collection drive. We have managed so much from your contributions; and every effort is appreciated.
Thank you to the following people:
Arlene J, Bronwyn H., Jane and Sebastian D., Jo D., Lisa S., Lisa S’s anonymous friends, Nikki A., Sandy S., Sheena H., Sharon W., Heather M., Colleen W., Michael P., Janine P.,
Anonymous friends at the New Beginnings Clinic
Anonymous parents at Monterey Pre-Primary School
Well done and thank you again!
Births this month…
167 babies were born at the Retreat Maternity Clinic during the month of February 2009.
Pantry and mom and baby packs…
In last month’s collection drive, I asked that you concentrate on the dry goods pantry more than the moms and baby packs. We’ve found that the food is stretched only the way it can be stretched by people who know how to do it. They would buy an onion and maybe a green pepper to fill up the pot, and then use the tinned food and rice or pasta to make sufficient food for the amount of people that night. Thank you very much to everybody who has helped us fill up the pantry and ensure that the moms who stay overnight and the Kangaroo moms now have enough food for the month of March.
Next month, we can go back to the normal list of goods required for both the Pantry; and the Moms and Baby packs.
Household items… linen… working electrical appliances…
What a wonderful contribution of household items! We’ve received a number of good-condition electrical appliances and linen and towels which will be distributed amongst our safe houses. Thank you so much – these items are given to the women who leave the safe houses after a period of time, and when they are able to support themselves and their children; and can move into an apartment or home of their own.
I have also had a tremendous response to the 2nd hand, clean baby clothes. These items [plus a couple of wonderful toys thrown in] will be distributed amongst the baby houses.
And just when we thought we had run out of baby grows, I received a BOX full of them for the baby houses. Miracles happen!
Dullah course offered….
One of the ways in which anyone can help at the Retreat Clinic is to become a Dullah, or birthing assistant. One must have time to sit with the moms while they are in labour and one cannot “run off” until the baby is born. We are in contact with a Certified Midwife who is running a Professional Accredited Dullah course between June and December this year. It will be one full Saturday per month for the 6 month period [lunch is included] and is sponsored by Johnson and Johnson. The course used to be run from Constantiaberg Medi-Clinic, however we do not know at this time where the venue will be. The cost of the course is approximately R2000.00, and for those of you who are interested, please contact me and let me know if you’d like to participate.
Information empowers update…
Fantastic news on the brochure! You all know that I have been working on this for a while and now Childline has now finally agreed to undersign it.
My main worry was the design of the brochure and printing thereof. Tracey and Sean Fraser have very kindly and very generously offered to do the design of the brochure for me!!!! You guys have absolutely NO idea how grateful I am for this wonderful gift! Thank you!
There is currently a distribution plan, but I do not want to rush ahead of myself. One thing at a time… I operate on faith and I know that from somewhere a solution for the printing of the brochure will happen.
Childline has also agreed to comment on any other child safety related documents that I produce.
Thank you to everybody who has supported and encouraged me in this very important endeavour.
Please pass on the message…
Word of mouth and the brochures which have been left at various points have helped spread the word about the Zoe Project. By passing on our introductory email to your friends [if you haven’t already] you may find one person who is able to help in some remote way. Please continue passing on the message and thank you for doing this.
Should you need brochures to hand out, let me know and I will get them to you.
Should you or any of your friends have any questions regarding either the Zoe Project or the information empowers project, please email or phone me. I am always available.
Take care of yourselves and lots of love
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Feb 09 Update: Safe houses and baby houses, counseling, information empowers
4 FEBRUARY 2009 UPDATE – THE ZOE PROJECT AND INFORMATION EMPOWERS.
Hello everyone
A great ‘thank you’ to all who have contributed in our collection drive last week. A couple of people have asked me if there was anything more that they could do. I do understand that it sometimes feels like you are just giving, and that you’d like to do more. Believe me, the “behind the scenes” work that you do and contribute to is phenomenal and it does make a difference!
I would like to thank the following people who have contributed this month:
Arlene J, Dr Lara S, Marlene H, Bronwyn H, Jane and Sebastian D, Lisa S., Lorette G, Nicki S., Sandy S., Colleen W, Jason C, Dr Sandy C, Heather M, Sharon W.
Births this month…
There were 187 births at the Clinic during January 2009 – quite a low number this month as the average being around 200.
Good news…
We have been able to start up the computer training centre at Sisters’ Incorporated, Kenilworth thanks to the donation of 2 printers [thank you Jane and Sebastian], and a full-house computer [thank you Jason and Sandy]. This will enable the women who live there, who have no computer skills, to learn how to use a computer with all the programs properly. This would help them to learn a new skill, go out and find work in an office, instead of working as domestic workers. They now have a better chance of maintaining themselves and their children when starting their new lives away from the safehouse.
One of the printers was given to the Retreat Maternity Clinic to be used in the labour ward.
Should there be anyone out there with a computer that they cannot use, please contact me – it will be put to good use.
Counseling…
A number of the young moms who give birth at the clinic are drug and/or alcohol dependant. This is a huge problem which goes along with poverty, gangs, the sense of hopelessness and everything else that goes together with substance abuse. And it has a negative effect on the children that they bare, and creates further social and economic problems in an already vicious circle.
The counselors at the clinic are not entirely equipped to deal with specifically, drug counseling. We endeavour to undergo training for 10 people in the next couple of weeks to help assist these people in need. A rehabilitation centre in Goodwood has agreed to help us with this. And it is great news, because we will be able to help more people overcome their addiction and face life in the real world.
Information Empowers Project…because every child counts!
I have been working during the last 4 to 5 years on a project which is something about which I feel very passionate, and it will still take some time to totally “get there”. The number of children being abducted, raped and murdered in our country has become page 7 news in our daily newspapers. People need information and phase 1 of the information empowers project is developing a brochure or leaflet in conjunction with Childline, Western Cape.
The brochure is titled: “What to do when you know or suspect that your child has been sexually abused or assaulted”. The brochure will cover this information, as well as give signs and symptoms of abuse. It is currently with Childline for edit and approval.
Phase 2 of this project is informing children and parents about dangerous situations and identifying potentially dangerous behaviour in people who may harm your child.
I know you’ve all just gone cold. Rape/sexual assault and abuse is the worst thing that could happen to anybody. I felt the need to do the research on this because, in a more privileged community, people are equipped to deal with the practicalities of such an atrocious event. But in the Cape Flats and the shanty towns of the Western Cape [and I’m sure the remote parts of rest of the country], people are not always sure of what they can do, how to do it, or whom to approach first.
I have mentioned that I am in need of a Xhosa translator as the brochure will go out in English, Afrikaans and Xhosa – please keep me in mind if you know of anybody who would be able to do the translation for me at no cost.
The aim is to distribute the brochure and then, subsequent material on child safety and educating parents and children on how to be safe, to the following areas in Cape Town: Bishop Lavis, Steenberg, Hanover Park, Bonteheuwel, Manenberg, Elsies River, Langa, Nyanga, Gugulethu, Khayelitsha, Crossroads, Delft, Phillipi, Blue Downs, Macassar, Kuils River. The idea is to distribute from day hospitals, clinics, community centres, pre-schools, schools, crèches, churches and police stations.
There are more phases to this project and I will update you on developments as they happen. I believe that it will make a difference and who knows where this will end up. I believe that there are people in the country who have become blasé about the issue and it needs to be put into the forefront of people’s minds. And specifically because they may tell themselves that it won’t happen to them, we need to face this epidemic head-on!
Pass on the message…
If you haven’t done so yet, please pass this information and my contact details on to your friends, colleagues and associates. The more people who know, the more people can help!
Please phone or email me should you need any information on either the Zoe Project or the information empowers project. I am always available to help.
Keep up the good work, thank you and lots of love
Norah
norah@xsinet.co.za
Hello everyone
A great ‘thank you’ to all who have contributed in our collection drive last week. A couple of people have asked me if there was anything more that they could do. I do understand that it sometimes feels like you are just giving, and that you’d like to do more. Believe me, the “behind the scenes” work that you do and contribute to is phenomenal and it does make a difference!
I would like to thank the following people who have contributed this month:
Arlene J, Dr Lara S, Marlene H, Bronwyn H, Jane and Sebastian D, Lisa S., Lorette G, Nicki S., Sandy S., Colleen W, Jason C, Dr Sandy C, Heather M, Sharon W.
Births this month…
There were 187 births at the Clinic during January 2009 – quite a low number this month as the average being around 200.
Good news…
We have been able to start up the computer training centre at Sisters’ Incorporated, Kenilworth thanks to the donation of 2 printers [thank you Jane and Sebastian], and a full-house computer [thank you Jason and Sandy]. This will enable the women who live there, who have no computer skills, to learn how to use a computer with all the programs properly. This would help them to learn a new skill, go out and find work in an office, instead of working as domestic workers. They now have a better chance of maintaining themselves and their children when starting their new lives away from the safehouse.
One of the printers was given to the Retreat Maternity Clinic to be used in the labour ward.
Should there be anyone out there with a computer that they cannot use, please contact me – it will be put to good use.
Counseling…
A number of the young moms who give birth at the clinic are drug and/or alcohol dependant. This is a huge problem which goes along with poverty, gangs, the sense of hopelessness and everything else that goes together with substance abuse. And it has a negative effect on the children that they bare, and creates further social and economic problems in an already vicious circle.
The counselors at the clinic are not entirely equipped to deal with specifically, drug counseling. We endeavour to undergo training for 10 people in the next couple of weeks to help assist these people in need. A rehabilitation centre in Goodwood has agreed to help us with this. And it is great news, because we will be able to help more people overcome their addiction and face life in the real world.
Information Empowers Project…because every child counts!
I have been working during the last 4 to 5 years on a project which is something about which I feel very passionate, and it will still take some time to totally “get there”. The number of children being abducted, raped and murdered in our country has become page 7 news in our daily newspapers. People need information and phase 1 of the information empowers project is developing a brochure or leaflet in conjunction with Childline, Western Cape.
The brochure is titled: “What to do when you know or suspect that your child has been sexually abused or assaulted”. The brochure will cover this information, as well as give signs and symptoms of abuse. It is currently with Childline for edit and approval.
Phase 2 of this project is informing children and parents about dangerous situations and identifying potentially dangerous behaviour in people who may harm your child.
I know you’ve all just gone cold. Rape/sexual assault and abuse is the worst thing that could happen to anybody. I felt the need to do the research on this because, in a more privileged community, people are equipped to deal with the practicalities of such an atrocious event. But in the Cape Flats and the shanty towns of the Western Cape [and I’m sure the remote parts of rest of the country], people are not always sure of what they can do, how to do it, or whom to approach first.
I have mentioned that I am in need of a Xhosa translator as the brochure will go out in English, Afrikaans and Xhosa – please keep me in mind if you know of anybody who would be able to do the translation for me at no cost.
The aim is to distribute the brochure and then, subsequent material on child safety and educating parents and children on how to be safe, to the following areas in Cape Town: Bishop Lavis, Steenberg, Hanover Park, Bonteheuwel, Manenberg, Elsies River, Langa, Nyanga, Gugulethu, Khayelitsha, Crossroads, Delft, Phillipi, Blue Downs, Macassar, Kuils River. The idea is to distribute from day hospitals, clinics, community centres, pre-schools, schools, crèches, churches and police stations.
There are more phases to this project and I will update you on developments as they happen. I believe that it will make a difference and who knows where this will end up. I believe that there are people in the country who have become blasé about the issue and it needs to be put into the forefront of people’s minds. And specifically because they may tell themselves that it won’t happen to them, we need to face this epidemic head-on!
Pass on the message…
If you haven’t done so yet, please pass this information and my contact details on to your friends, colleagues and associates. The more people who know, the more people can help!
Please phone or email me should you need any information on either the Zoe Project or the information empowers project. I am always available to help.
Keep up the good work, thank you and lots of love
Norah
norah@xsinet.co.za
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