Every child deserves a safe, loving environment — a place where they can grow, learn, and thrive. But for far too many children across South Africa, this is not the reality. Neglect and abuse rob them of their innocence, dignity, and potential. At Starfish Greathearts Foundation, we believe it is our collective responsibility to protect our most vulnerable children and give them the support they need to heal and hope again.
The Silent Epidemic
Abuse and neglect often remain hidden behind closed doors, shrouded in silence and shame. In the communities where we work, children face physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, or are left to fend for themselves due to poverty, illness, or loss of caregivers. Neglect — whether intentional or due to desperate circumstances — can be just as damaging as overt abuse. Children without proper food, hygiene, clothing, medical attention, or emotional care often suffer long-term developmental and psychological harm.
The statistics are sobering. According to UNICEF South Africa, more than 1 in 3 children experience violence prior to the age of 18, including physical and sexual violence. For orphaned and vulnerable children, the risk is even higher.UNICEF
A Story of Hope: Sipho’s Journey
Sipho*, a shy eight-year-old boy from Eastern Cape, came to our partner organisation withdrawn and severely undernourished. He had lost both his parents to Covid-19 and was left in the care of a relative who, overwhelmed by poverty and grief, could not provide consistent food or supervision. Sipho was often left alone for days, missing school and surviving on scraps.
When our community-based care worker visited Sipho’s home during a routine check-in, she quickly realised the urgency of his situation. With Starfish’s support, Sipho was brought into a safe and nurturing environment at an after-school programme. He received daily meals, clean clothes, and emotional support. A local social worker intervened, providing counselling for Sipho and working with his family to create a more stable living arrangement.
Today, Sipho is thriving. He is back in school, participating in sports, and recently said he dreams of becoming a teacher — so he can “help children who are quiet like I was.”
His story is one of thousands — proof that intervention, compassion, and partnership can change a child’s life.
*Name changed to protect identity.
How Starfish Intervenes
At Starfish Greathearts Foundation, we support over 18,000 children across five provinces through our community-based partners. Our interventions focus not just on addressing the symptoms of neglect and abuse, but on preventing them altogether.
It Takes a Village
Protecting children is not a task for one organisation alone — it takes a village. We work closely with caregivers, educators, clinics, local leaders, and government departments to build a circle of care around every child.
But we need your help.
Whether you are a donor, a volunteer, a corporate partner, or simply someone who cares, your support strengthens our ability to reach more children and prevent more harm. Together, we can break the cycle of abuse and create communities where children are valued, safe, and free.
Join us. Stand up for vulnerable children. Be a Greatheart.
If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected, contact your local child protection services immediately.
To learn more about how you can support our work, visit Home Page or email us at info@starfish.org.za