Providing the Essentials - Health Care
Hands at Work strives to improve the overall health and well-being of the most vulnerable children. Through visiting children in their homes (Holy Home Visits), volunteer Care Workers are able to assess the health and security of the children they care for and identify urgent needs. Sometimes this involves doing basic home repairs or supporting the children and their families with blankets and mosquito nets. In other situations, it means taking a child to the clinic and supporting the family in the fear and uncertainty
Care Workers are supported by local Hands at Work teams as they bring increased awareness of the importance of health and hygiene. One of the practical ways this happens is through the regular distribution of deworming medication, soap, toothpaste and toothbrushes. Care Workers are empowered to advocate on behalf of the children’s health care needs, ensuring that they are safe and receive the treatment they need.
Over the years, the impact of health care crises like HIV/AIDS, cholera, malaria and the COVID-19 pandemic have been increasing. The local Hands at Work teams are committed to supporting the Care Workers and addressing these challenges together. Regularly, the local Hands at Work teams take time to share with the Care Workers, the children and their families about how infections are transmitted, prevention methods, treatment and how they can keep their homes and Care Points safe and healthy.
Care Workers and the local Hands at Work teams intentionally build relationships with the local clinics and government health authorities. In developing these connections, the overall care and health of the most vulnerable children and their families are increased.
Fighting for the Health Care of Our Children in Mozambique
The local Hands at Work team in Chimoio, Mozambique, have been building a close relationship with the clinic in Chimoio. Recently, a team of nurses from the clinic visited the community of Chigodole to provide treatment for our children who have been struggling with their eyesight. Maximising their time in the community, the nurses also administered deworming medication for the children, which ensures that they are receiving the proper nutrients from their daily meal.
