The Capricorn Foundation has donated N. dollars 246 000 to Christ’s Hope International Namibia, an organisation dedicated to helping orphaned and vulnerable children affected by AIDS and poverty.
In a media statement issued on Thursday, the bank stated that while 400 children are currently registered with Christ’s Hope International Namibia, the program hopes to increase this number to 900 by 2025 due to the increased effects of COVID-19 on HIV-affected households, leaving more children orphaned.
By attending an afterschool program at ‘care point’ structures near their school and home, the children benefit from a holistic care model.
According to Hannelie Turner, Country Team Leader for Christ’s Hope International Namibia, locally employed caregivers care for the children by preparing warm meals, assisting with homework and engaging the children in activities and programs that support their focus on physical, intellectual, emotional, community, and spiritual development.
Christ’s Hope International monitors all activities and program content to ensure that teaching methods and support systems are up to date.
“These children face extreme challenges and, without assistance, will frequently repeat the cycle of AIDS and extreme poverty. We can cover budget items that go directly to the care of the children with the donation from the Capricorn Foundation. Stationery, school uniforms, and hygiene kits are among them,’ Turner explained.
She added that Christ’s Hope screens and selects children with the greatest need for the program with the help of key community players, however, the children are living in extreme poverty, making them vulnerable to neglect, abuse, trafficking and disease.
Christ’s Hope International Namibia has been caring for orphaned and vulnerable children in Keetmanshoop, Rehoboth, Okahandja and Oshikuku for 17 years.