LekaGape

1. To empower socially disadvantaged children, youth and women who are victims of domestic violence, abuse, neglect, or vulnerable due to HIV or other devastating illness in their families.

By offering a portfolio of services Leka Gape gives vulnerable members of society a chance to become productive, healthy contributors to the local economy. The following services support this goal:

• Shelter for abused or homeless women and orphaned or vulnerable children
• Social support and crisis counseling provided by trained social workers and student volunteers
• Education for women, children and youth
• Financial aid and support to obtain the necessary documents and requirements for government aid
• Nutritious food for shelter residents and children/youth attending the Day Care Centre to treat malnutrition
• Assistance to access the legal system for the prosecution of rape charges and obtaining of restraining orders
• Assistance in obtaining medical treatment for illnesses or injuries
  

2. To self-fund a sustainable model combining social services with a portfolio of community-based income-generating projects such as the bakery, office services, Aquaponics and carpentry.

3. To combine income generating projects with vocational training and jobs. By incorporating on-the-job training Leka Gape accesses a low-cost work force and gives their trainees a chance to earn a small income while learning a valuable trade. Once trained, these employees are able to either remain in the expanding business portfolio of Leka Gape, or seek gainful employment in the community.

4. To ensure that the youth of Lulekani are exposed to creative and motivational messages about issues important to their future health and success. By working in partnership with the non-profit-organization Love Life, Leka Gape offers HIV prevention programs, gender issue workshops, violence awareness and other programs addressing vital social issues that are provided free of charge.