2009 Plans

Prevention / Awareness
We need to focus on preventative talks in schools in the community. We have identified 15 schools located in areas where the risk of children leaving for the streets is high. We wish to set up partnerships between the more affluent schools and schools in the communities to assist with financial support, school uniforms & building projects. I Care will also be partnering with churches and other NGO’S to provide assistance with our Back to School programme.

Outreach
I Care set up its own Reception Centre on Wednesday, March 11 at the Kwasuka Theatre in Stamford Hill Road, Greyville. The theatre is attached to the Methodist Church. Initial rehabilitation programmes , practical workshops and a feeding scheme will be run from here for children living on the streets, while we assess the suitability of their home environment for their return home. Should this not be possible they are placed at child care facilities or enrolled in I Care’s rehabilitation programme. A surfing programme in partnership with Roxy / Quicksilver will also be run from here.

Rehabilitation
Three Khuthaza rehabilitation programmes are planned for 2009. One of these programmes will be held specifically for girls living on the streets, a first for KZN.

Housing / Shelter
We have moved our boys into the three new homes built by Ilembe. Moving day was at the end of February. The Handing Over ceremony took place on Wednesday March 18. We are looking at purchasing additional land to increase our capacity to house more street children who are unable to return home.

Skills development / Job creation
Continued ABET computer training, NACCW and MERSETA training.

Education
A motivational leadership training programme is planned, and we are looking at implementing a structured sports programme at the I Care school.