Caring for Children Orphaned by AIDS and Other Vulnerable Children in South Africa

As of 2007, 33.2 million people globally have HIV. Unlike epidemics of past where the young and elderly were most susceptible, HIV/AIDS affects the “bread winners” of the community. Millions of parents have died around the world leaving behind 15 million AIDS-orphaned children. Millions of additional children face increased vulnerabilities due to the impact of HIV/AIDS on their family and community. Two ongoing studies address this crisis by identifying ways in which we can support carers and children.

Care For Children Project Team

The Care for Children Project (2006-2010) assesses and identifies factors mediating the wellbeing of adults caring for orphans and vulnerable children in Umlazi Township. This study is the first known study in the developing world to examine this topic. Protecting caregiver wellbeing will be an essential strategy for combating the potentially negative impacts of the epidemic on families in our community.

Based on the information generated by the Care for Children Project, the South African government and various funders have supported the expansion of the Care for Children Project into the Young Carers Project (2009-2011). This national study will be the first known study in the world to examine the wellbeing of caregivers and AIDS-orphaned children over several years in provinces throughout South Africa. The website for the Young Carers Project can be found at: youngcarers.netau.net. The KwaZulu Natal Provincial site of the Young Carers Study called the Young Carers: KwaZulu Natal uKunakekela Study will be the only location to collect information on caregiver-child pairs, providing us with unique information on how caregiver-child dynamics impact wellbeing over time.

Care for Children Project