Research indicates that over 50% of South African children have experienced physical abuse from caregivers, teachers or relatives at some point in their lives. This statistic offers just a glimpse into the broader issue of violence against children in South Africa, as a significant portion of such incidents remains unreported.
The problem is bigger than these statistics suggest.
All the children at the Abraham Kriel Children’s Home Nylstroom have suffered trauma stemming from physical, emotional and/or sexual abuse, violence at home, death of one or both parents, poverty, alcohol or drug abuse, and insufficient or absent parental skills. To deal with the distress experienced by children as a result of these events, we must attend to their therapeutic needs to break the cycle of violence and abuse.
Similar to caregivers and parents falling short in their duties to these children, there is a corresponding failure on the part of the state to adequately support children's homes. The state subsidy covers less than 50% of the children’s home budget. The only way to replenish this deficit is through support from individuals in the community. Each contribution makes a huge difference and helps us care for our children.
These contributions not only ensure that we are able to meet the physical and emotional needs of our children but it also provides them with a sense of hope.
Today you can be a catalyst to stop violence against children by becoming a friend of the Abraham Kriel Children’s Home Nylstroom.