International Nelson Mandela Month

On the 18^th July, the world will be celebrating International Nelson Mandela Day. It is an annual celebration in honour of Nelson Mandela, on his birthday. The essence of the day is to take action, inspire change, and make every day a Mandela Day.

This year’s theme is It Is In Your Hands.

This day is a call to action for individuals, communities, and organisations to take time to reflect on Mandela's values and principles and to make a positive impact in their own communities. Now, more than ever, humanity needs to confront climate change, persistent and increasing levels of poverty, as well as inequality.

SOS Children’s Villages advocates for the protection of children against these elements that compromise their safety and wellbeing, this has to be a priority for all those who provide care and support to vulnerable children.  Children’s rights are not only a basic value but also an obligation clearly set out in Article 28 of the South African Constitution.

SOS Children’s Villages believes that “Every child should belong to a family and grow up with love, respect, and security”. On this Mandela Day, corporates are welcome to visit the programmes upon request and on prior arrangement. We also have lists for our donors and sponsors of our needs at the programmes, these lists can be found here.

SOS Children’s Villages provides children with alternative care, where necessary, and where families of origin are not the best place for children to grow up. With strong and healthy relationships, each child and young person can grow up with trust and a sense of belonging that is essential for them to become their strongest selves. 

The global call to action celebrates the idea that every individual has the power to transform the world, the ability to make an impact can still be achieved. No matter how small your action, this day is about changing the world for the better.

To support SOS Children’s Villages, please go to https://www.sossouthafrica.org.za/

Call +27 11 234 8708

Or email info@sos.org.za / Mandy.spies@sos.org.za for corporate partnerships – 083 355 7282

#ItIsInYourHands.

END.

About SOS Children’s Villages

SOS Children’s Villages is an independent, non-governmental organisation that advocates for the rights of South Africa’s marginalised children. We offer loving, family-like care for children and young people who have lost or are at risk of losing parental care. Established in 1984, SOS has eight Children’s Villages and three Social Centres across eight provinces.

Each year our Alternative Care, Family Strengthening and Youth Employability programmes provide life-changing support to children and families across the country.

The Alternative Care model comprises of four principles that include a mother (each child has a caring parent), brothers and sisters (the family ties grow naturally), a house (a secure place to grow up in) and a village (the SOS family is part of the community).

Our Family Strengthening Programme aims to enable children who are at risk of losing the care of their families to grow within a safe family environment. We work in co-operation with local authorities and other service providers to empower families and communities to effectively protect and care for their children. We care for more than 5000 children and youth across South Africa.

For more information, go to https://www.sossouthafrica.org.za/

Contact

Seithuto Seakgwa

Seithuto.Seakgwa@sos.org.za

079 122 3332