Heal
Our work spans the entire healing journey. We begin by travelling countrywide to reach children with disabilities, then we build up their strength for surgery.
Children spend an average of three months in our care, leaving only once they are fully recovered and ready to step into their new lives.
While they are with us, we surround them with love and acceptance, creating a context where their self-worth can take root and flourish.
Preoperative care
Ensuring our children are ‘surgery-strong’ takes into account their physical and psychological wellbeing.
Many arrive malnourished, which we remedy with a customised feeding programme: our nurses weigh and measure their progress weekly, treating illnesses and complications associated with nutrient deficiency.
We build up health and strength in an environment of kindness, care and the simple joys of childhood.
Surgical care
We have forged partnerships with excellent healthcare providers, and we manage every aspect of each child’s surgery with them.
We act as case managers and medical guardians, advocating for patient needs and liaising with doctors to ensure each of our children receives the best possible care, every step of the way.
Rehabilitation
After surgery, each child begins a custom-designed rehabilitation programme. We manage medications, change bandages, and provide physical and occupational therapies, all while delivering the intangibles of childhood through education, nutrition and fun.
Therapeutic Activity Programme
We believe that healing is child’s play.
Fun and games foster the spirit of childhood that characterises Kafika House, and our homes are filled with joy and laughter.
Fresh air and sunshine do wonders for recovery, so we design outdoor games that incorporate therapeutic movement, disguising rehabilitation as fun.
Our Activity Centre weaves education into healing, keeping young minds stimulated and engaged. Between their lessons children learn sharing, respect and empathy.
Clubfoot Clinic
Our Occupational Therapists and Physiotherapists manage clubfoot casting for infants and children of walking age, changing casts each week.
Some cases can be managed without surgery, but for babies who need a tenotomy, we bring a surgeon in.
The simplicity of the procedure means they needn’t be admitted to hospital, and we can manage their whole healing journey in-house.
High love
Many of our children have spent their lives hidden away, or in homes with no more than the bare minimum. Arriving at Kafika House marks the first time that they have unlimited nutritious food, playmates and peers, education, and the opportunity to truly embrace childhood.
Our House Mamas
Our House Mamas are a core component of our high-love care.
These huge-hearted women emanate a warm, nurturing presence, caring for the children just as a mother would.
They are there for them round the clock, and when a child is admitted for surgery, they spend the nights in hospital with them.
“Love is the greatest healing power I know. Nothing goes deeper than love; it heals not only the body, not only the mind, but also the soul.”
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