Amanda, a 24-year-old young mother of a 4-year-old little girl, found herself battling the painful memories of her past. She did not know who she could share her pain with. The trauma of rape and the hardship growing up in a very poor family haunted her.
But her story is not one with a sad ending. Amanda found hope through HOPE worldwide South Africa’s (HWW SA) ECD Parenting Support Group (PSG) programme in Cape Town. She joined a PSG known as Ilitha lethu which means “Our light”. Here, Amanda was able to share her story with other mothers, and after each session she could feel herself transforming into a better person.
“I have become a better person ever since I started attending these sessions” she said.
Now because of her journey towards healing she feels free. She was able to overcome her past by courageously sharing her pain with other women.
“I don’t know how I could show my appreciation [to HWW SA],” Amanda shares.
PSGs are informal groups for parents living in poor communities operating in all 7 provinces where we are present. The PSG’s are specifically for parents with young vulnerable children, who often don’t have the financial means to take their children to crèche. Through this programme parents are given the essential knowledge and are taught the necessary skills needed to help their children succeed.
The PSG programme has not only transformed Amanda’s life, but the lives of numerous women in incredible ways. “I didn’t know how to express my love to my children, however, now whenever they come home from school or are playing outside I give them hugs and tell them I love them,” shares a PSG member from KZN.
Another member expressed: “I love what we learn from these sessions and I want more parents to know about this programme”. One of the women opened up about the group’s strong connection: “I met these women months ago and now they are like my sisters, we chat to each other every day. Thank you HWW for the programme”. “I am relieved and feel free from stress and depression”, a member joyfully expressed. Another member also adds: “I have learned to help and share my life with other people and also help other moms in my area with tips on how they can raise their children”.
Help us continue with our journey to transform the lives of women like Amanda, their families, communities, and most importantly the young and vulnerable children.
On our website click “DONATE NOW” and follow the details provided to help us transform the lives of women, and young, vulnerable children. Makro mCard holders can go to their mWallet and tap “Donate to charity”. Help by choosing us as the charity of your choice, insert the amount you would like to donate and tap “Donate”.
Thank you to our partners Makro and USAID’s FHI programme for helping us make PSG programmes a success.
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By Nthabiseng Makuwa and Percy Matshoba – Media and Marketing