Breaking Cycles. Building Futures. Transforming Communities.
Umbrella of Care interrupts cycles of gender-based violence and disability exclusion at their source — through early intervention, trauma-informed play, and family support across Gauteng, the Free State, the Eastern Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal.
Vision
A society where all individuals are free from Gender-Based Violence, and where children with disabilities are empowered to thrive, supported in their journey towards healing, justice, and the breaking of cycles of violence and stigma.
Mission
To prevent Gender-Based Violence and raise disability awareness through education, support, advocacy, and empowerment — fostering a culture of respect, equality, and justice by building capacity, collaborating with stakeholders, and strengthening families and communities.
Our Theory of Change
Umbrella of Care interrupts cycles of vulnerability at their source through early intervention, prevention, and community-based support. We believe children thrive when families and communities have the knowledge, resources, and support systems needed to protect and empower them.
Our approach recognises that a child’s wellbeing is deeply connected to the wellbeing of their family. When families experience crisis — including violence, disability-related challenges, or limited access to services — children are often affected emotionally, socially, and developmentally. By supporting children alongside caregivers and communities, Umbrella of Care strengthens early identification, improves access to support, builds caregiver capacity, and creates safer environments where every child, regardless of ability, location, or circumstance, has the opportunity to develop and thrive.
Identify & Reach
Early identification of children and families at risk through community partnerships, screening, and trusted relationships.
Support & Strengthen
Provide tailored support to children, caregivers, and families, building knowledge, skills, and resilience.
Improve Access
Connect families to the resources and services they need, reducing barriers and increasing opportunities.
Create Safer Environments
Strengthen families and communities to be safe, inclusive, and supportive places for children to grow.
Children Thrive
Children are empowered, resilient, and able to reach their full potential in nurturing and protective environments.
At a Glance — Year 1 Targets
- 150 children in weekly Physical Education / gymnastics sessions
- 100 children with autism in weekly ConnectKids sessions
- 80 deaf children in weekly DeafWorld sessions; 80 families trained in SASL
- 120 children in Nothando trauma-informed play; targeting 80% measurable reduction in trauma symptoms within 6 months
- 200 parents/caregivers receiving ongoing support
- 100 teenagers trained as peer educators (indirect reach 500+)