A three-year-old sexually and physically abused child was only reached by Alberton Child Welfare three days after the case came to their attention due to lack of resources, namely, a reliable vehicle.
“There were allegations that a three-year-old child was sexually and physically abused and it took us three days to investigate the matter. Upon investigation, the child was found to be physically bruised and had to endure sleeping outside because of neglect by an aunt,” explained Anubha Mackerdhuj of Alberton Child Welfare.
On average, Alberton Child Welfare has recorded that between six to eight children are found to need care and protection.
The Alberton North entity currently has four social workers that have caseloads of over 150 each covering the entire Alberton and surrounding areas.
Biological fathers’ unwillingness to assume responsibility, alcohol and drug abuse, orphanhood and financial difficulties are reported to result in children needing care.
Mackerdhuj of Alberton Child Welfare said a number of their cases are children found in need of care due to situations where biological parents are victims of social ills.
“As an organisation, our primary source of income is the Department of Social Development’s subsidy which is minimal and doesn’t cover all expenses. Our offices are in serious need of renovations with roofs leaking as well as a generator among other needs,” she said.
She said they are facing shortages of important resources such as a reliable vehicle, laptops, clothing and food donations for their beneficiaries.
“This leaves us in dilemmas when we are unable to follow up on reports of abuse and neglect in the community. A working and reliable vehicle is desperately needed at the organisation to ensure that we accomplish our work and to be responsive to the needs of children,” said Mackerdhuj.
She said these challenges hinder them from rendering their services in the community on time.
She appealed to the community to kindly assist them in providing services to the vulnerable and marginalized.
To make any kind of donations to the organisation, contact Alberton Child Welfare on 010 109 6121.
