Hello Everybody
Well, the 2010 World Cup fever has really hit Cape Town and within a couple of days [can you believe it?] we’ll be hosting every soccer lover around the world. How exciting is that?
And then there is the very, very long holiday for the children who are at school – to all the moms: don’t worry, we’ll find something to do with out little ones.
Thank you so much to the following contributors:
Arlene Johansson, Dimitra Kotsopolous, Dr Lara Smith, Bronwyn Hopwood, Marlene Helfrecht, Jane and Sebastian Dunn, Tara and Dave Dunn, Sandy Schuurman, Sharon Wewege, Heather Mylne, Sheena Hutchings, Ingrid Rix, Michael P., Donna and Luc Cobban, Anna Johansson, Ruby Passet-Gradwell, Yolanda Parry, Collyeen Sinclair, Dalma Cheryll, Dr PJ Sinclair, Christina Smit, Roz Hoek, Nikki Haywood, Lou van Selm, Thea Bessie Kotsopolous, Thea Athina Kotsopolous Friends at New Beginnings clinic, and Friends from Monterey Pre-Primary School.
Babies born during May 2010:
There were 185 babies born in May – 99 were boys and 86 girls! All beautiful and perfect!
Mom and baby packs:
We have received lovely products again for the mom and baby packs – thank you so much for the items of clothing and products.
Sometimes I look at the size of the vests, for example, and can’t imagine that somebody very small will wear it.
Dry goods pantry:
We have had wonderful contributions of soup – thank you very much Yolanda and Sheena. Needless to say, the freezer has been full and there is nothing more nutritional than good old soup.
We still have a problem with milk and bread, but I’m sure we’ll find a way around that.
The Clinic and Zoe functions:
The Zoe Project is running as per normal at the Retreat Clinic. Our counselors are working hard – sometimes till late at night to ensure that all the clients are seen and assisted. The staff is working hard too – sometimes up to 8 moms are giving birth at the same time, but somehow they manage this
We have not changed anything regarding our functions or the support given to the people who visit the clinic.
Our intention is to grow and assist more people in need
Our ultimate goal is to have a safehouse of our own, run by and for the people we help.
Your support and encouragement:
Thank you again to each and everybody who have sent messages of love and support to us – especially during the last 2 months.
Your encouragement just proves that it takes small things by people to change the world, one thing at a time.
You are making a difference in many lives, and no matter what your beliefs are, it is making a difference in this country.
Spread the word:
Please continue to pass on these emails. The Zoe Project works because of word-of-mouth. We do not advertise the needs of our clients, nor do we request aid for financial support – we rely on your kindness and your spreading the word of our work.
Thank you so much for those of you who have done this and continue to do this
Enjoy the holidays and much love as always
Norah Papanicolaou
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Monday, May 10, 2010
April 2010 Update
Hello Everybody
My apologies for only sending out the update now – it has been a very busy time and I wanted to wait
for information to come in before sending this update.
Thank you to the following contributors…..
Arlene Johannson, Dimitra Kotsopoulos, Dr Lara Smith, Marlene Helfrecht, Bronwyn Hopwood, Bessie Kotsopoulos, Thea Athina Kotsopoulos, Jane and Sebastian Dunn, Tara and Dave Dunn, Sandy Schuurmans, Sharon Wewege, Heather Mylne, Sheena Hutchings, Ingrid Rix, Tracey and Sean Fraser, Rene Grimmbacher, Liam Grimmbacher, Michael P., Sally Harris, Anna Johannson, Kirsten Hopwood-Smith, Ruby Passet-Gradwell, Yolanda Parry, Ward Counselor Denis Joseph and Harriet Joseph, The DA Women’s Network [DAWN], Colleen Sinclaire, Dalma Cherryll, Natalie Damian-Harris, Friends at the New Beginnings Clinic, Friends at Monterey Pre-Primary School and supporters who want to remain anonymous.
A very special thank you to Jessica Midlane and friends in the UK. Jessica has recently had a baby and through her friends and network has started collecting products for the Zoe Project from the UK. It has taken off really well but at present, we have no way of bringing those items into the country yet.
We appeal to anyone who may know of a shipping company who would like to donate half of a container [or thereabouts], or perhaps someone who knows Sir Richard Branson [one can dream] who could assist in bringing these items to South Africa. Jessica, this is incredible and we thank you for your efforts!
Congratulations and thank you to Yolanda Parry who has taken up a position as Dullah/Birthing assistant at the clinic. Yolanda has been reporting for duty during the week and weekends. Your enthusiasm and dedication to the moms is a breath of fresh air and a great help. Thank you, Yolanda!
We are still organising attendance with further Dullah courses, should anyone else be interested in helping out. Remember, only if you can commit the time to staying with a patient until the end of the birth, should you consider doing this course.
Babies born…
There were a total of 194 babies born at the clinic during the month of April – 92 boys and 102 girls.
Happily, again, only 4 babies were born to young women aged 17.
The Article in the Chronicle…
I’d like to start off by saying thank you to the many, many positive responses and emails and phone calls we have received. Thank you to those of you who have written letters to the Chronicle.
Please know that the Chronicle published the article dated 21 April in good faith and had no control over the content of the article.
We have had a bit of a negative impact due to that article in that not the same amount of food was donated or products for mom and baby packs were received. We do realize that the article had an impact and effect on all who read it with many questions and uncertainties, but would like to add that the publicity has assisted us.
When one works as either a Community Based Organisation or for an NGO there are unwritten rules and protocol one has to adhere to ensuring successful accomplishment of the aims and goals of that organisation.
It is practiced and known that duplication of functions at the same venue is fatal – whether Medicans sans Frontiers, UNICEF or other organisations.
Duplication uses up manpower and wastes resources. Duplicating or attempting to duplicate existing structures undermines efforts and sets up ideas of competition which distracts from the aims of CBO’s and NGO’s.
Local and International relationships between NGO’s and CBO’s recognises these facts, and adherence to protocol and showing of mutual respect for the different aims of various organisations working within the same community, ensures success.
Successful synergy never includes duplication or ideas of replicating existing projects.
From here on…
We have met with the management at the Retreat MOU and it was agreed to and decided that, as the Zoe Project has an existing infra-structure at the clinic and a track-record of 7 years, and in order to prevent duplication and confusion, that other organisations would have to liaise with both management at the clinic and our director, Tracey Aitken as to their aims and goals.
This is to ensure that the existing structures are used properly and that protocol is followed correctly.
But mainly, this agreement ensures that the goals of the Zoe Project, which is helping the moms and babies [and the staff] are accomplished and our aims are not lost within confusion.
I would like to thank you again for your continued support and again, assure you that we have no intention of withdrawing our support and help for the moms and babies at the clinic, nor for the staff at the clinic.
I look forward to hearing from all of you soon and as always send
Lots of love
Norah Papanicolaou
Friday, April 23, 2010
Misinformation about the Retreat Maternity Clinic
The attached article was published yesterday, 21st April 2010 in The Chronicle.
This article implies that there has been no support to the moms and babies who visit the Retreat Maternity Clinic, and it ignores the fact that the Zoe Project has been operational there for the last 7 years.
We have been working for the past 7 years at the Retreat Maternity Clinic supplying the following services to the patients/clients there:
Mom and Baby packs [consisting of panties, sanitary pads, toothbrushes, toothpaste, facecloths, soap, roll-on deodorant, a snack and cooldrink for the mom; and Baby grows, vests, nappies, baby products, baby blankets, hats, booties, toys, etc]
A Dry-goods pantry [supplying food for the moms who deliver there as well as for the Kangaroo moms]
A pregnancy workshop for moms-to-be
Psychological and emotional support for the patients with trained counselors
The services of a pro-bono psychologist
Assistance in adoptions and follow-through with adoptions
Assistance with placing women [with or without children] in safe houses where domestic violence takes place
Assistance to moms who are in emergency situations with their children [short and long term]
Staff team-building events
Registration of births
I have brought it to your attention because the article assumes that the people mentioned in it has just realized this need and that nothing has been done about it.
They have started a fundraising drive based on established functions of the Zoe Project at the Retreat MOU and is assuming that it is their "brainchild".
Please rest assured, that we have no intention of withdrawing our continued support to those clients at the clinic, or of withdrawing our support for the staff who work at the clinic.
We will continue to do our work because we realize that the need is great, and our project has worked successfully for the last 7 years.
I thank you for your wonderful and loyal support thus far and know that we have your continued support.
Please feel free to contact me should you have any queries regarding this matter or any other matter about the Zoe Project.
Lots of love as always
Norah
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Update March 2010
Hello Everybody
What a wonderful time of year! Easter Holidays and being spoilt by spending special time with the children and family; enjoying the last days of summer and being privileged to live in Cape Town… We’ve seen the Argus happening and enjoyed watching the runners in the 2 Oceans’ Marathon. Well done to those of you who have participated and completed these endurance events.
I hope you’ve all had a blessed Easter and have remembered the true meaning of Easter.
A huge thank you to the following contributors…
Arlene Johannson, Dr Lara Smith, Marlene Helfrecht, Bronwyn Hopwood, Alexandra Fisher, Jane and Sebastian Dunn, Tara and Dave Dunn, Jo Dix, Sandy Schuurman, Sharon Wewege, Heather Mylne, Sheena Hutcihngs, Anne Wilson, Rene Grimmbacher, Michael P., Donna Cobban, Melissa and Sally Harriss, Anna Johannson, Yolanda Parry, Harriet and Councilor Denis Joseph, the DA Women’s Network [DAWN], Colleen Sinclaire, Dalma Cherryll, the anonymous friends at the New Beginnings Clinic, Anonymous friends from Monterey Pre-Primary School.
Thank you for each contribution – I have said before that no matter how big or small, it does make a difference to those who receive the items you donate to the Zoe Project.
A Warning…
As you are all aware, we have never asked for monetary contributions for the Zoe Project. It has been brought to our attention that there is a group of people who are fundraising for the Zoe Project. We have not employed any person or persons to do this on our behalf.
Please ensure that if you do contribute money to any cause, that you know to whom this is going and that it is legitimate. You are welcome to phone me to clarify the names and positions of people who work on the Zoe Project.
Babies Born…
Well, March 2010 has turned our Cape Town statistics on its head because there were more boys born than girls at the Retreat Maternity clinic. 99 Boys and 89 girls!
Just when you think you know what is going to happen, nature changes things up side down.
Other news of interest is that only 4 of the babies born were to teenagers: 1 x 15 year old and 3 x 16 year olds. We hope that this is an indication that the birthrate amongst young girls will drop and that the average age of giving birth of 14 years old in the Western Cape, will change. We also trust that the campaign of using condoms and contraceptives is getting through to the younger [and older] generation.
Mom and Baby Packs…
Last month, we received the most gorgeous baby clothes, and again this month [thank you Yolanda, Melissa and Sally] we were pleasantly surprised with another kind donation of the most gorgeous baby items. We will be using this for our Christmas day babies.
In addition to these items of baby clothing, we have received beautiful mom and baby packs [thanks Donna and Rene]. Your continuous and loyal support of our project assists me in continuing to believe in the kindness and humanity of others.
The toys that are so kindly knitted [thank you Anna] by hands that cannot do other tasks bring joy to little ones who perhaps would not have a new toy otherwise.
And the lovely baby products which we will include in our baby packs – perfect size! [thank you Colleen].
I am gobsmacked at the kindness and selflessness that I see every month – people who give sometimes when they can’t afford to, and those who give because they feel it is all they can do.
Thank you for that.
Dry goods pantry…
Our pantry is feeding the number of moms who give birth overnight and those who stay for Kangaroo care. Every month the amount of people being fed is different, and every month the amount of food I receive is different – but it is always enough. Miraculously it fills the stomachs of those who need the food.
We are in desperate need of powdered milk to make 3 liters of milk per day; and we are in desperate need of bread [2 loaves per day] for the clinic.
Pollsmoor babies…
Most of the babies of mothers who are incarcerated at Pollsmoor Prison are born at the Retreat Maternity Clinic. In an emergency situation these babies are born at Groote Schuur Hospital, but most of the time the moms are brought to Retreat MOU along with their guard and they wait. Children do not ask questions and moms who are imprisoned do not feel less pain at giving birth. We live privileged lives and no matter who you are, your child is precious to us.
Support messages and encouragement…
Thank you to all who have sent messages of support and encouragement. It means a lot to me but it means so much more to the staff who work at the clinic.
Enjoy the rest of April and lots of love
Norah Papanicolaou
norah@xsinet.co.za
What a wonderful time of year! Easter Holidays and being spoilt by spending special time with the children and family; enjoying the last days of summer and being privileged to live in Cape Town… We’ve seen the Argus happening and enjoyed watching the runners in the 2 Oceans’ Marathon. Well done to those of you who have participated and completed these endurance events.
I hope you’ve all had a blessed Easter and have remembered the true meaning of Easter.
A huge thank you to the following contributors…
Arlene Johannson, Dr Lara Smith, Marlene Helfrecht, Bronwyn Hopwood, Alexandra Fisher, Jane and Sebastian Dunn, Tara and Dave Dunn, Jo Dix, Sandy Schuurman, Sharon Wewege, Heather Mylne, Sheena Hutcihngs, Anne Wilson, Rene Grimmbacher, Michael P., Donna Cobban, Melissa and Sally Harriss, Anna Johannson, Yolanda Parry, Harriet and Councilor Denis Joseph, the DA Women’s Network [DAWN], Colleen Sinclaire, Dalma Cherryll, the anonymous friends at the New Beginnings Clinic, Anonymous friends from Monterey Pre-Primary School.
Thank you for each contribution – I have said before that no matter how big or small, it does make a difference to those who receive the items you donate to the Zoe Project.
A Warning…
As you are all aware, we have never asked for monetary contributions for the Zoe Project. It has been brought to our attention that there is a group of people who are fundraising for the Zoe Project. We have not employed any person or persons to do this on our behalf.
Please ensure that if you do contribute money to any cause, that you know to whom this is going and that it is legitimate. You are welcome to phone me to clarify the names and positions of people who work on the Zoe Project.
Babies Born…
Well, March 2010 has turned our Cape Town statistics on its head because there were more boys born than girls at the Retreat Maternity clinic. 99 Boys and 89 girls!
Just when you think you know what is going to happen, nature changes things up side down.
Other news of interest is that only 4 of the babies born were to teenagers: 1 x 15 year old and 3 x 16 year olds. We hope that this is an indication that the birthrate amongst young girls will drop and that the average age of giving birth of 14 years old in the Western Cape, will change. We also trust that the campaign of using condoms and contraceptives is getting through to the younger [and older] generation.
Mom and Baby Packs…
Last month, we received the most gorgeous baby clothes, and again this month [thank you Yolanda, Melissa and Sally] we were pleasantly surprised with another kind donation of the most gorgeous baby items. We will be using this for our Christmas day babies.
In addition to these items of baby clothing, we have received beautiful mom and baby packs [thanks Donna and Rene]. Your continuous and loyal support of our project assists me in continuing to believe in the kindness and humanity of others.
The toys that are so kindly knitted [thank you Anna] by hands that cannot do other tasks bring joy to little ones who perhaps would not have a new toy otherwise.
And the lovely baby products which we will include in our baby packs – perfect size! [thank you Colleen].
I am gobsmacked at the kindness and selflessness that I see every month – people who give sometimes when they can’t afford to, and those who give because they feel it is all they can do.
Thank you for that.
Dry goods pantry…
Our pantry is feeding the number of moms who give birth overnight and those who stay for Kangaroo care. Every month the amount of people being fed is different, and every month the amount of food I receive is different – but it is always enough. Miraculously it fills the stomachs of those who need the food.
We are in desperate need of powdered milk to make 3 liters of milk per day; and we are in desperate need of bread [2 loaves per day] for the clinic.
Pollsmoor babies…
Most of the babies of mothers who are incarcerated at Pollsmoor Prison are born at the Retreat Maternity Clinic. In an emergency situation these babies are born at Groote Schuur Hospital, but most of the time the moms are brought to Retreat MOU along with their guard and they wait. Children do not ask questions and moms who are imprisoned do not feel less pain at giving birth. We live privileged lives and no matter who you are, your child is precious to us.
Support messages and encouragement…
Thank you to all who have sent messages of support and encouragement. It means a lot to me but it means so much more to the staff who work at the clinic.
Enjoy the rest of April and lots of love
Norah Papanicolaou
norah@xsinet.co.za
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
February 2010 Update
Hello Everybody
The first term of this year is almost over and life is flying by. I hope you are all well and have been making the best of the hot weather.
The mom’s pain during labour and the dad’s face when he sees his child for the first time.
There are few things that can compare to this experience.
Mom and baby packs…
We have received the most beautiful newborn baby clothes for our baby packs. The moms will be most grateful for these, and also, we will be going into winter soon: the majority of these items were for winter!
The items are all lovely and very much appreciated by those who receive them.
The second hand clothing all goes to either safe houses or baby houses – so thank you for those items too.
Dry goods pantry…
The milk delivery [2 liters a day] seems to be problematic at present, as well as the bread [which is no longer available], so the food items we provide along with, of course, the daily one dry Provita, is all they have to feed the moms.
Thank you for your continuous support here. It is difficult, especially for the Kangaroo moms, to breastfeed a baby when you have an empty stomach.
We still have our 40 x 250g margarine tubs filled with vegetable soup – and if any of you would like to make more for us, please let me know.
A Special thank you…
To Elsie and Ras du Plessis from Miracle Kidz. I mentioned them in our newsletter and update last month but I would like to thank them again because they have gone above and beyond being emergency foster parents. Elsie and Ras have helped a very desperate pregnant mom by looking after her child while she went into labour.
The dedication of these two individuals is phenomenal – they have made a huge difference to the life of that child AND the one the mom has given birth to.
Another extra-ordinary thank you…
I am not going to name them by name [can’t single out individuals], but the two sisters at MOU who assisted with another emergency baby from Westlake – thank you for going out of your way to help this baby, for helping us register him and getting him his necessary injections.
You have done a wonderful service to him and I am especially impressed that you do your work with such joy and pleasure. Thank you!
Dullah Course…
Our Dullah trainer will be running another course soon – if you are interested in becoming a ‘birthing assistant’ please let me know and I can arrange for you to join the group who will be training.
Please note that these courses are run specifically for people who want to help at the Retreat Maternity Clinic. People who would like to do this privately and earn an income from this have to arrange their own
courses and training.
Support Structures…
I would like to talk a bit about support structures. We all have someone, either family or a close friend, who is there for us during a time of need. But we are also there to support them.
Many of the women I come across at the clinic and within underprivileged communities do not have this.
The question is, what do we do about this?
I haven’t got an answer yet, but I do know that it is important to re-connect with people and to value the friendships we do have. It isn’t about what that person can do for us, the maybe’s or perhapses, but rather an emotional support: The ‘just being there’ kind of support.
Life will feel lighter with someone on your side.
No man is an island, we need others to grow and others need us too.
Thank you so much again for all the wonderful messages of support that we receive via email and other means – the encouragement is an amazing boost for the staff and it is great to know that so many people care about what we do.
Take care and lots of love
Norah Papanicolaou
Information Empowers!
because every child matters
and for The Zoe Project
http://www.informationempowers.org.za/
norah@xsinet.co.za
The first term of this year is almost over and life is flying by. I hope you are all well and have been making the best of the hot weather.
A huge thank you to the following contributors…
Arlene Johannson, Jane and Sebastian Dunn, Tara and David Dunn, Sandy Schuurman, Sharon Wewege, Heather Mylne, Ingrid Rix, Rene Grimmbacher, Michael P., Donna Cobban, Anna Johannson, Yolanda Parry, Cathi and Colin Henderson, Sally Harris, Colleen Sinclair, Sharon Reynolds, The kind parents and children at Constantiaberg Pre-school, our anonymous friends at the New Beginnings clinic, Anonymous friends at Monterey Pre-Primary, and The ladies at the Constantia Gardeners’ club.
Babies born…
There were 185 babies born in February 2010 - 87 of them were boys.
Again I was very privileged to be a birthing assistant to a mom on Monday while she was giving birth, and I must say that the experience is still the same – absolute awe at the little miracles coming into the world.
The mom’s pain during labour and the dad’s face when he sees his child for the first time.
There are few things that can compare to this experience.
Well done to the staff who work so hard, and who assist moms to give birth to healthy babies under very difficult and sometimes stressful situations.
Mom and baby packs…
We have received the most beautiful newborn baby clothes for our baby packs. The moms will be most grateful for these, and also, we will be going into winter soon: the majority of these items were for winter!
The items are all lovely and very much appreciated by those who receive them.
The second hand clothing all goes to either safe houses or baby houses – so thank you for those items too.
Dry goods pantry…
The milk delivery [2 liters a day] seems to be problematic at present, as well as the bread [which is no longer available], so the food items we provide along with, of course, the daily one dry Provita, is all they have to feed the moms.
Thank you for your continuous support here. It is difficult, especially for the Kangaroo moms, to breastfeed a baby when you have an empty stomach.
We still have our 40 x 250g margarine tubs filled with vegetable soup – and if any of you would like to make more for us, please let me know.
A Special thank you…
To Elsie and Ras du Plessis from Miracle Kidz. I mentioned them in our newsletter and update last month but I would like to thank them again because they have gone above and beyond being emergency foster parents. Elsie and Ras have helped a very desperate pregnant mom by looking after her child while she went into labour.
The dedication of these two individuals is phenomenal – they have made a huge difference to the life of that child AND the one the mom has given birth to.
Another extra-ordinary thank you…
I am not going to name them by name [can’t single out individuals], but the two sisters at MOU who assisted with another emergency baby from Westlake – thank you for going out of your way to help this baby, for helping us register him and getting him his necessary injections.
You have done a wonderful service to him and I am especially impressed that you do your work with such joy and pleasure. Thank you!
Dullah Course…
Our Dullah trainer will be running another course soon – if you are interested in becoming a ‘birthing assistant’ please let me know and I can arrange for you to join the group who will be training.
Please note that these courses are run specifically for people who want to help at the Retreat Maternity Clinic. People who would like to do this privately and earn an income from this have to arrange their own
courses and training.
Support Structures…
I would like to talk a bit about support structures. We all have someone, either family or a close friend, who is there for us during a time of need. But we are also there to support them.
Many of the women I come across at the clinic and within underprivileged communities do not have this.
The question is, what do we do about this?
I haven’t got an answer yet, but I do know that it is important to re-connect with people and to value the friendships we do have. It isn’t about what that person can do for us, the maybe’s or perhapses, but rather an emotional support: The ‘just being there’ kind of support.
Life will feel lighter with someone on your side.
No man is an island, we need others to grow and others need us too.
Thank you so much again for all the wonderful messages of support that we receive via email and other means – the encouragement is an amazing boost for the staff and it is great to know that so many people care about what we do.
Take care and lots of love
Norah Papanicolaou
Information Empowers!
because every child matters
and for The Zoe Project
http://www.informationempowers.org.za/
norah@xsinet.co.za
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Update January 2010 by Norah Papanicolaou
Life is Precious!
Hello Everybody
What a wonderful way to start the year and get going! We have had a great response this month with people phoning and emailing to find out about the Zoe Project and Information Empowers! Word spreads fast and good things happen because people care.
Thank you to the following contributors…
Alison Roberts, Arlene Johannson, Dr Lara Smith, Bronwyn Hopwood, Marlene Helfrecht, Jane and Sebastian Dunn, Tara and Dave Dunn, Jo Dix, Nicki Stock, Nikki Andrew, Sandy Schuurman, Sharon Wewege, Heather Mylne, Sheena Hutchings, Rene Grimmbacher, Donna Cobban, Michael P, Jennifer Norman, Anna Johannson, Antoinette and Claude Denis, Melica McCrae, Yolanda Parry, Constantia Ladies’ Gardening Club, Nurith Henderson and Ivodent, Georgie and Constantiaberg Pre-primary school, Thea Bessie and Thea Athina Kotsopolous, Anonymous friends at The New Beginnings Clinic and anonymous friends at Monterey Pre-Primary School.
A Special thanks to Elsie and Ras Du Plessis for helping out one of the moms and her toddlers in an emergency situation… Elsie and Ras run Miracle Kidz and they are emergency foster parents to little ones who require special care.
Births at the clinic during January…
There were 187 births with 107 of them being boys!
I would like to add the following [due to a couple of questions posed to me recently] that most of the moms who go there to have their babies, actually want their children and have planned their pregnancies.
They are just in a situation where they cannot afford the luxury of a private hospital. Circumstances are preventing them from giving their children expensive medical care, but that cannot be a detraction from the fact that they have planned that child and are able to give that child their best. Like you and I would.
The women who are addicted to substances, or are living on the street also go there to have their children. These are the ones we are helping most of all because of their situations. To us, it doesn’t matter from which demographic situation you hail, but rather that we are in a position to help you and that precious child.
Dry goods pantry…
I have learnt that the bread supply [2 loaves a day] is no longer being supplied to the clinic. I would like to put out an appeal for 14 loaves of bread a week – they can be frozen at the clinic, in order to assist with this desperate shortfall.
We are continuing with the frozen soup [40 x 250g margarine tubs a month], and with the 2 minute noodles, pasta, rice and tinned food, et cetera.
The food makes a huge difference to the moms who are breastfeeding their underweight babies [Kangaroo moms] and to those who do not get a meal delivered to them by family – which is most of the women.
Please let me know if you would like to sponsor 14 loaves of bread a week.
Mom and baby packs…
They continue to wow me! Thank you for the lovely items for both mom and babies. They are very much appreciated and needed.
Interest in the clinic and wanting to do something more…
I have had a couple of people ask about physically helping out at the clinic. Please contact me to discuss the needs. Again, we are in need of birthing assistants [Dullahs] and this can only happen if you have the time to sit with the mom while she is in labour UNTIL the baby is born.
Please keep forwarding our emails to your friends, family and associates. We have a busy year ahead and the more people we reach, the easier it is for us to help others and keep this project going.
Thank you again and happy February.
Lots of love
Norah Papanicolaou
norah@xsinet.co.za
Saturday, December 26, 2009
December 2009 Update and Thank You!!!
Hello Everybody
A very happy festive season to you all. I trust you’ve had an excellent Christmas and hope the rest of this year will be joyous to you and your families.
Thank you to the following contributors…
Alison Roberts, Arlene Johansson, Dimitra Kotsopolous, Dr Lara Smith, Bronwyn Hopwood, Marlene Helfrecht, Frenske Otzen, Jane and Sebastian Dunn, Tara and Dave Dunn, Jo Dix, Lorette and Juliette Garnett, Nicki and Mia Stock, Nikki Andrew, Antoinette and Claud Denis, Sandy Schuurman, Sharon Wewege, Heather Mylne, Sheena and Roly Hutchings, Tracey and Sean Fraser, Thea Athina and Thea Vessie Kotsopolous, Rene, Joshua and Liam Grimmbacher, Donna Cobban and Luc Michot, Michael P., Anna Johansson, Kirsten Hopwood, Annette Cowley-Nel, Jonathan Ackerman, Melica McCrae, Yolanda Parry, Suzanne Kilpin and the Constantia ladies’ gardening club, Counselor Denis and Harriet Joseph, the DA Ladies’ Committee, Nurith Henderson and Gary from IVODENT Dental Supplies, Mr Seever and the Mount Nelson Hotel, the anonymous parents at Monterey Pre-Primary School and the Anonymous Friends at the New Beginnings Clinic.
I’d like to mention the very special staff at Retreat Maternity Clinic and the wonderful work they do – they are a team of dedicated individuals who only have the best interest of their patients at heart. Thank you all for a wonderful year!
Births at the clinic…
I went to the clinic yesterday as is usual on Christmas day and there were 2 women in labour – through their pain they were competing to see who’s baby would be born first on Christmas day.
I haven’t got the full total for the month of December, but as of yesterday there were 167 babies born, 75 of them were boys and 92 girls.
What we have accomplished this year…
I wanted to send out a lengthy newsletter about all the great accomplishments this year, but I feel that going into every aspect in detail would create at least a 3 page document.
I would just like, in point form to show you what we have done with your help…
Dry goods pantry – continued support of food to all the moms
Moms and Baby Packs – we’re still only giving 20 a month, but for someone who has nothing, this is gold.
Adoptions – 75% of children adopted from SA internationally are born at the Retreat clinic. We continue to counsel young mothers about the adoption options.
Counseling – we have 2 counselors and have recently acquired the pro bono services of a psychologist who sees to the multitude of needs and education of the staff.
Domestic violence – we continue to remove girls and moms with their babies from violent and abusive situations at home, placing them in the various safe houses we use.
Drug counseling – we are in contact with drug centres who assist in counseling and rehabilitation.
Clothing – for women and children. The ongoing support from you guys to the children’s homes and safe houses.
Used, but working electrical appliances – for second stage housing at safe houses.
There are so many aspects surrounding the Zoe Project, and all is successful. We are growing and becoming stronger, but still taking every day as it comes.
Thank you to you all for you wonderful support for the Zoe Project.
Information Empowers!
fighting the war against child sexual abuse because every child matters...
What a year! We have also accomplished so much.
First I’d like to say thank you to all of you for your support with the Kids2Kids project. I have sent out the thank you pamphlet and therefore won’t attach it here. If you haven’t seen it, please visit the website at http://www.informationempowers.org.za/
Thank you for your support and recommendations with the workshops and workbooks.
Our workshops are taking off at a tremendous rate – next year will be a very busy one indeed. The workbooks are being distributed and used throughout the Western Cape and we endeavour to have it as part of the curriculum at schools.
The Smart Kids’ Kit © [Identity Profile Kit for Children] has been distributed far and wide – we have had it featured in the Cape Times and the National Spokesperson for SAPS have recently recommended that all children acquire an identity profiling kit. We are the first organisation to offer it to the public free of charge!
We have had interviews on radio and the feedback from that has been tremendous. It makes it worthwhile doing this work about child sexual abuse, knowing that it is helping someone somewhere.
Our website – after many errors and technical difficulties, our website is up and running and interactive. Please have a look at http://www.informationempowers.org.za/
The blogspot has updated news reports and we welcome opinions… http://www.informationempowers.blogspot.com/
A busy year and I must say that for a couple of days, I will be taking a much deserved break with my gorgeous family.
I’ll be in touch in January 2010, ready for another year and I know that we will continue to grow and continue to help those who are in dire situations. With your continued support, we know that we can only help more people. Thank you and Well done!
Lots of love as always and all the best for 2010.
Norah Papanicolaou
Director - Information Empowers!
Fighting the war against child sexual abuse because every child matters
And for The Zoe Project
http://www.informationempowers.org.za/
A very happy festive season to you all. I trust you’ve had an excellent Christmas and hope the rest of this year will be joyous to you and your families.
Thank you to the following contributors…
Alison Roberts, Arlene Johansson, Dimitra Kotsopolous, Dr Lara Smith, Bronwyn Hopwood, Marlene Helfrecht, Frenske Otzen, Jane and Sebastian Dunn, Tara and Dave Dunn, Jo Dix, Lorette and Juliette Garnett, Nicki and Mia Stock, Nikki Andrew, Antoinette and Claud Denis, Sandy Schuurman, Sharon Wewege, Heather Mylne, Sheena and Roly Hutchings, Tracey and Sean Fraser, Thea Athina and Thea Vessie Kotsopolous, Rene, Joshua and Liam Grimmbacher, Donna Cobban and Luc Michot, Michael P., Anna Johansson, Kirsten Hopwood, Annette Cowley-Nel, Jonathan Ackerman, Melica McCrae, Yolanda Parry, Suzanne Kilpin and the Constantia ladies’ gardening club, Counselor Denis and Harriet Joseph, the DA Ladies’ Committee, Nurith Henderson and Gary from IVODENT Dental Supplies, Mr Seever and the Mount Nelson Hotel, the anonymous parents at Monterey Pre-Primary School and the Anonymous Friends at the New Beginnings Clinic.
I’d like to mention the very special staff at Retreat Maternity Clinic and the wonderful work they do – they are a team of dedicated individuals who only have the best interest of their patients at heart. Thank you all for a wonderful year!
these are our Christmas Babies ...
Births at the clinic…
I went to the clinic yesterday as is usual on Christmas day and there were 2 women in labour – through their pain they were competing to see who’s baby would be born first on Christmas day.
I haven’t got the full total for the month of December, but as of yesterday there were 167 babies born, 75 of them were boys and 92 girls.
more of our Christmas babies...
What we have accomplished this year…
I wanted to send out a lengthy newsletter about all the great accomplishments this year, but I feel that going into every aspect in detail would create at least a 3 page document.
I would just like, in point form to show you what we have done with your help…
Dry goods pantry – continued support of food to all the moms
Moms and Baby Packs – we’re still only giving 20 a month, but for someone who has nothing, this is gold.
Adoptions – 75% of children adopted from SA internationally are born at the Retreat clinic. We continue to counsel young mothers about the adoption options.
Counseling – we have 2 counselors and have recently acquired the pro bono services of a psychologist who sees to the multitude of needs and education of the staff.
Domestic violence – we continue to remove girls and moms with their babies from violent and abusive situations at home, placing them in the various safe houses we use.
Drug counseling – we are in contact with drug centres who assist in counseling and rehabilitation.
Clothing – for women and children. The ongoing support from you guys to the children’s homes and safe houses.
Used, but working electrical appliances – for second stage housing at safe houses.
There are so many aspects surrounding the Zoe Project, and all is successful. We are growing and becoming stronger, but still taking every day as it comes.
Thank you to you all for you wonderful support for the Zoe Project.
Information Empowers!
fighting the war against child sexual abuse because every child matters...
What a year! We have also accomplished so much.
First I’d like to say thank you to all of you for your support with the Kids2Kids project. I have sent out the thank you pamphlet and therefore won’t attach it here. If you haven’t seen it, please visit the website at http://www.informationempowers.org.za/
A Couple of pictures about our Kids2Kids (c) 2009 Drive...
Thank you for your support and recommendations with the workshops and workbooks.
Our workshops are taking off at a tremendous rate – next year will be a very busy one indeed. The workbooks are being distributed and used throughout the Western Cape and we endeavour to have it as part of the curriculum at schools.
The Smart Kids’ Kit © [Identity Profile Kit for Children] has been distributed far and wide – we have had it featured in the Cape Times and the National Spokesperson for SAPS have recently recommended that all children acquire an identity profiling kit. We are the first organisation to offer it to the public free of charge!
We have had interviews on radio and the feedback from that has been tremendous. It makes it worthwhile doing this work about child sexual abuse, knowing that it is helping someone somewhere.
Our website – after many errors and technical difficulties, our website is up and running and interactive. Please have a look at http://www.informationempowers.org.za/
The blogspot has updated news reports and we welcome opinions… http://www.informationempowers.blogspot.com/
A busy year and I must say that for a couple of days, I will be taking a much deserved break with my gorgeous family.
I’ll be in touch in January 2010, ready for another year and I know that we will continue to grow and continue to help those who are in dire situations. With your continued support, we know that we can only help more people. Thank you and Well done!
Lots of love as always and all the best for 2010.
Norah Papanicolaou
Director - Information Empowers!
Fighting the war against child sexual abuse because every child matters
And for The Zoe Project
http://www.informationempowers.org.za/
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