大象传媒

Starfish transforms the futures of orphans and vulnerable children in South Africa whose lives have been blighted by HIV and poverty (like Nontle whose story you hear in the appeal). We reach 14,000 children every year: we want to care for many more so they can grow into happy, independent adults. Our Wellness Programme aims to safeguard the physical, mental and emotional wellbeing of children by improving access to healthcare services, education and good nutrition.

Our nurse gives the children a 鈥榯op to toe鈥� check-up. They are tested for HIV and TB, their immunisations are reviewed and medication monitored. By ensuring the physical wellbeing of children we can maximise their ability to learn, helping to break the cycle of poverty and HIV.聽

Children get a hot meal every day after school, often eating vegetables fresh from our 'food gardens'. Good nutrition is essential, particularly for children living with HIV. For many of the children we care for, it is their only meal of the day.聽

鈥淔eeding their bodies is one thing, but their minds and emotional wellbeing are also important,鈥� says Thandi Starfish Careworker. Our cr猫ches provide a safe and stimulating environment and enable the older siblings in child headed households to continue their education.聽