Empowering vulnerable mothers

Mothers in South Africa face numerous challenges. Violence, poverty and limited healthcare are just some of the many struggles that they are up against. Mothers play a vital role in raising children and they contribute to a healthy society. It is therefore important to take note of the challenges that women are facing to meet the needs of their children. Children who have a safe home are better able to make the most of educational opportunities. They are also more resilient when facing difficulties later on in life. The basis for a healthy society starts in the early years of childhood.

Tales of Turning is joining hands with vulnerable mothers in Durban to form support groups. The support groups unite mothers against the many struggles that they face on a day to day basis. Under the Narrative Foundation, the Tales of Turning Project provides a safe space where women can tell their stories and delve into the hidden possibilities which are located within themselves. Tales of Turning supports vulnerable mothers so that they can meet the needs of their children. This includes teaching parenting skills and showing the mothers how to make educational toys for their children out of recyclable materials. We teach the mothers how to develop self-esteem and empathy in their children. Studies show that self-esteem and empathy help children to reach their full potential. The project also helps to build family identity so that the children know what their family values and traditions are. A vital part of the Tales of Turning project is connecting the mothers to resources within the community and wider community.

Objectives:

The program outcomes are that mothers in Cato Manor:

have strengthened relationships with each other and their community.
are aware of what resources are available in their immediate and broader community, and know how to access them.
understand how to build a positive relationship with their children.

Some words from the mothers after they completed the Tales of Turning program:

“Since I started applying what I learnt in these groups my children have started concentrating at school more. I have learnt a lot at the groups. “

“I used the puzzles with my children, they were so excited so they made their own ones.”

“I did this activity with my teenage daughter. She became a master of it and now she teaches other children from the neighbourhood to do the puzzle. This is good because it keeps the children off the street and they can even make a competition who is going to put together the puzzle first.”

“You must know how your kids feel and what is happening in their lives.”

“I applied what I learnt at home with my 15 year old daughter who is going through an adolescent stage, she has been moody and doesn’t want to talk to anyone. Last week when she got home I calmly started a conversation with my daughter and it started off very cold on the day but the next day she started opening up and telling me how she feels.”

“Since I have taken the activities home and told them what I’m doing here communication is better.”

Empowering Vulnerable Mothers

by Tales of Turning

Durban, Kwazulu Natal Poverty Alleviation Social Need

Project activity

Funded to date:

R 52,000

Funding goal: R 52,000

NGO: Tales of Turning

Start: 18th May 2016

End: 1st September 2016

Field agent: Jenna-Lee Strugnell
jennalee.s@gmail.com