Community urged to assist Teddy Bear Foundation
PARKTOWN –The foundation continues to assist child victims of abuse during lockdown.
The emergency services of the Teddy Bear Foundation (TBF), based in Parktown, will continue during lockdown.
According to clinical director of the Foundation Dr Shaheda Omar, the foundation, which assists child victims of abuse, is making use of rotating skeleton staff.
Dr Omar sits on the corporal punishment national task team, child protection task team, interim steering committee on gender-based violence and many others. During lockdown, the foundation sent a letter to the president requesting an increase in the child support grant.
Omar said that the free face-to-face service offered by the foundation cannot convert to digital platforms due to lack of access for children, many of whom come from disadvantaged backgrounds.
During the lockdown so far, the foundation has provided services to a number of victims of abuse as well as assisted in the reporting and opening of criminal cases.
“It is imperative that a child who has been brutalised receives intervention and support face-to-face with safe distancing,” said Omar.
All staff on the ground continue to adhere to strict precautionary measures including the use of sanitisers and masks for staff and beneficiaries.
Omar expressed thanks to Investec, Momentum and MTN, who have funded digital and data support at this time.
“A huge concern is the safety of our children, many of whom are out and about without masks and protection… For some of these children, it is safer taking a chance and being woutside than remaining indoors with abusive parents.”
Omar also drew attention to issues of food insecurity and lack of supervision of children, particularly in informal settlements. “Poverty and food insecurity will remain long after lockdown. With the downgrading, loss of jobs and financial strain on families, we will need to continue to reach out to needy families.”
The foundation appeals to community members to assist by donating toys, old clothes and frozen meals to the foundation, which will distribute them to families in need.
Omar emphasised the value of a spirit of ubuntu in our communities, particularly with the financial strain following lockdown. “The community can assist by being vigilant and enquire about suspicious or risk behaviour observed and report it to the authorities.”
