The closure of Thárros Family Centre’s children’s haven in Hankey became a catalyst for growth, as the organisation refocused its efforts on expanding its services to benefit the broader community.
By introducing a variety of programmes and support initiatives, they aim to make a more profound impact, addressing the multifaceted needs of the community and providing essential assistance to those who need it most.
Founder of Thárros Family Centre, Taise Sampson, said that in late 2023 the centre’s management board faced the heartbreaking reality of closing the children’s home.
After months of grappling with financial challenges and carefully weighing every option, it became clear that they could no longer sustain the centre.
“This decision marked a deeply emotional end to a place that had been a sanctuary of love, protection, and care for more than 100 children over its seven years of service,” said Sampson.
Thankfully, she said that the closure of the centre is not the end of the organisation’s commitment to serving the Hankey community.
Sampson said Thárros, which is a non-profit organisation and a public benefit organisation, has redirected its mission, focusing on supporting children and families through new local school and clinic programmes.
She further said that their dedication to making a difference remained as strong as ever, as they adapted to meet the community’s needs in new ways.
“Nine months into the new venture, the success of Thárros Family Centre is evident, with children continuing to thrive under the compassionate and skilled guidance of dedicated team facilitators,” said Sampson.
Programmes delivered at schools:
1. The Protective Behaviours Programme, which promotes the right for every child to feel safe, is a vital part of Thárros’s curriculum. This programme empowers children by helping them identify a network of trusted adults and instilling the confidence to speak out. Running for 8-10 weeks, the programme is delivered to one grade at a time across all three primary schools in Hankey, ensuring that every child receives the support they need in a focused and comprehensive manner.
2. Homework support plays a critical role in the academic and personal development of children, especially for those who have experienced trauma or lack a strong support structure at home. Thárros’s daily programme at Hankey Primary School offers personalised attention, helping students improve their academic performance while fostering positive study habits and boosting their confidence. Providing access to educational resources in a safe and nurturing environment ensures that children have the tools and support they need to succeed. Through this initiative, Thárros not only helps children with their homework, but they also empower the learners to bridge educational gaps, develop a love for learning, and build a brighter future.
3. The Teenage Pregnancy Awareness Programme is designed to help teenagers navigate the complex transition into adulthood by exploring the responsibilities that come with it. This programme provides education on the physical, emotional, and social aspects of teenage pregnancy, emphasising the importance of making informed decisions. Through open discussions, the programme encourages teens to think critically about their choices, understand the potential consequences, and recognise the importance of planning for a healthy and responsible future.
Programmes for parents:
1. Mother2Mother support groups offer invaluable assistance to young and first-time moms by providing a safe and supportive platform to share their experiences, concerns, and feelings. These groups create a nurturing environment where mothers can connect with others who are facing similar challenges, reducing feelings of isolation and offering emotional comfort. Participants benefit from peer support, practical advice, and shared insights that help them navigate the complexities of motherhood. Through these interactions, mothers gain confidence, build a network of support, and access valuable resources, all of which contribute to their overall well-being and the healthy development of their children.
2. The Effective Parenting workshop is an eight-week programme designed to promote healthy parenting techniques and explore alternative approaches for parents dealing with challenging behaviour from their own or foster children. Through a series of interactive sessions, participants learn evidence-based strategies for managing difficult behaviours, enhancing communication, and fostering positive relationships within the family. The programme also provides a supportive environment where parents can share their experiences and develop practical skills to improve their parenting practices. By equipping parents with the tools and confidence they need, the workshops aim to create nurturing home environments that support the emotional and behavioural development of children.
For more information, to support or assist with their programmes, contact Taise Sampson at 083 500 0910 or email info@tharros.co.za.
