Help at hand for hurting children

Writer Elaine Davie

Over the 75 years of its existence, many children in our area would probably be able to attest to the difference a timely intervention by Child Welfare Hermanus has made in their lives. But things are tough these days, many families are under extreme pressure both socially and financially and children in underprivileged communities are more vulnerable than ever before.

Whether they are affected by rampant drug, alcohol or other forms of abuse; if they have been caught up in civil unrest, or are simply neglected, unloved or unwanted, the children in our communities are being seriously harmed every day.

It is often a hidden affliction, well camouflaged by both victim and perpetrator, but if left undetected and unsupported, it may come back to haunt both the individual and the community many years into the future.

Nelani Jacobs of PBO God Shift Era and Sally Titelstad, Hermanus Child Welfare Centre manager in the newly-upgraded counselling room for children in need of emotional support.

This truth was recognised by Nelani Jacobs, founder of Public Benefit Organisation, God Shift Era, when she volunteered at a children’s Safe House run by Child Welfare. She was so moved by the stories she heard of children who had been traumatised in one way or another that she decided she had to do something about it.

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