Project: Inspire 
MAMA: Ingrid  
Started in: 2017  
Partner since: 2017 
Location: Malmesbury, Western Cape 
Number of children: 33 (supported by MAMAS), 78 (total)  
Special: MAMA Ingrid - who was a very good judoka - gives the children of Inspire judo lessons. 

Two-thirds of the poorest children live in rural areas, usually associated with agricultural subsistence living. These remote locations are unable to access any social services to support these vulnerable children, who receive little supervision or care. Often their problems are compounded by excessive high rates of chronic alcoholism inflicted onto their communities. School attendance is low, as many children must work as farm labour during the agricultural seasons to contribute to their subsistence living. Sadly, this is the reality in the Swartland region where MAMA Ingrid is committed to these children.

A significant proportion of the children of the Swartlands area are born with physical or mental disabilities due to Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) which is caused by drinking alcohol while pregnant. These most vulnerable children are also more likely to suffer from neglect or (sexual) abuse and have nobody to turn to.

Inspire creates a safe heaven. Children receive a daily meal, get homework assistance, can play, learn and have fun and have positive role models to guide them. It’s a place where they can build their self-confidence, learn to be independent and gain income-generating skills. They are given the tools to assist them to break the cycle of poverty that has marked their family for generations. 

Unique skills and knowledge
MAMA Ingrid has had a great deal of experience working with children in rural areas with another project. She brings these unique skills and knowledge set into her current work with Inspire. MAMA Ingrid started programmes for children who live on the farm or in the surrounding area in an old, slightly dilapidated farmhouse. She pays special attention to teens to assist them in discovering themselves and their talents. The teenage years are a vulnerable time for development. Inspire helps boys and girls to talk about their problems and discuss- often quite difficult or taboo subjects, such as sexuality. The project works with teenagers to help increase their resilience, motivation and self-confidence to prepare them for a more independent future.