Every child deserves to feel safe, loved, and protected. Sadly, many children suffer in silence from physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, often feeling afraid, confused, or alone. At WACAAM (Women and Children Abuse Alleviation Ministry), we believe that no child should ever face such pain—and that early intervention can change a life forever.
Our mission is to provide a compassionate and secure environment where children can find safety, healing, and hope.
Through counselling, advocacy, and community partnerships, we work to protect vulnerable children, empower their voices, and restore their sense of trust and belonging.
We stand on the truth that Jesus Christ is the ultimate Healer. Through prayer, counselling, education, and practical care, we work to break cycles of abuse and restore hope to children and families. When faith and compassion come together, healing becomes more than recovery — it becomes a testimony of God’s grace and love.
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Definition: Any intentional act that causes physical harm or injury to a child.
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Examples: Hitting, kicking, shaking, burning, poisoning, or choking.
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Signs: Bruises, fractures, unexplained injuries, fear of going home, or flinching at sudden movements.
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Definition: Behaviors that harm a child’s self-worth, emotional well-being, or sense of security.
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Examples: Constant criticism, humiliation, rejection, threats, or withholding love and support.
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Signs: Low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, withdrawal, or extreme behavior changes.
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Definition: Failure to meet a child’s basic physical, emotional, educational, or medical needs.
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Examples: Lack of food, shelter, supervision, clothing, healthcare, or education.
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Signs: Poor hygiene, frequent absences from school, malnutrition, or being left alone for long periods.
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Definition: Involving a child in sexual acts or exposing them to sexual materials or behaviors.
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Examples: Touching, penetration, exposing genitals, forcing a child to watch sexual acts, or grooming.
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Signs: Sudden knowledge of sexual behavior inappropriate for age, fear of certain people, nightmares, or unexplained injuries.
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Definition: When a parent or guardian deserts a child without arranging for their care or supervision.
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Examples: Leaving a child unattended for long periods, or permanently without contact or provision.
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Definition: Using children for labor, profit, or sexual purposes in ways that harm their development.
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Examples: Forced labor, child marriage, trafficking, or using children for pornography.
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Definition: When a child witnesses violence between parents, caregivers, or others in the home.
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Examples: Can cause trauma, fear, behavioral problems, and long-term emotional harm.
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Definition: Using religion, beliefs, or cultural practices to control, shame, or harm a child.
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Examples: Forcing harmful rituals, labeling a child as possessed, or denying them their own beliefs.
We believe that true healing from child abuse requires care for the whole person — body, mind, and spirit. Many children carry invisible wounds that extend beyond physical pain. Our approach combines the spiritual foundation of Christian ministry with natural, culturally sensitive wellness practices, acknowledging that all healing comes from God, the Creator of life.
✝️ 1. Christian Ministry: Restoring Hope through Faith
Through prayer, pastoral counselling, and biblical teaching, WACAAM helps children and families rediscover their worth and purpose in Christ.
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Prayer and pastoral care: Providing safe spaces for children to release fear and trauma while experiencing God’s peace and comfort.
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Biblical mentorship: Teaching that every child is made in God’s image and deeply loved, helping rebuild trust and confidence.
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Community support: Partnering with churches to create safe, nurturing environments where children can heal and grow in faith.
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Faith-based resilience: Helping survivors find strength in God’s promises and learn to walk in forgiveness, restoration, and hope.
🌿 2. Natural Healing: Restoring Health through God’s Creation
We recognise that God has placed in nature the tools we need for physical and emotional restoration. WACAAM promotes safe, God-honouring wellness practices that bring peace and healing.
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Healing through nature: Using God-given plants and natural remedies to promote calmness, good sleep, and general well-being.
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Holistic wellness: Teaching the importance of rest, nutrition, and self-care as part of God’s design for healing the body and mind.
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Community nurturing: Encouraging families to create peaceful home environments filled with love, prayer, and healthy living.
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Empowerment through education: Training caregivers and communities to recognize signs of trauma and respond with compassion and biblical care.
HELPLINE
| NUMBER
| DESCRIPTION
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| 116
| Toll-free, free from all networks. 24/7 helpline for children up to age 18, and adults with concerns about children. Counselling, referrals to police/social workers if needed.
|
Child welfare
| 0861 424 453
011 452 4110
| Reports of neglect or abuse of children; protection, welfare, family development services.Enter your text here
|
SAPS
South African Police Service
| 10111
| For immediate danger, reporting abuse, crimes against children.
|
Department of Social Development
| 0800 428 428
| |
STOP GENDER VIOLENCE
| 0800 150 150
| For any gender violence / abuse issues.
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WOMEN ABUSE
| 0861 424 453
011 452 4110
| Same as Stop Gender Violence Helpline.
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POISON
| 0861 555 777
| If a child is poisoned or ingested harmful substance.
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AMBULANCE & MEDICAL EMERGENCY
| 10177
| |
ALL EMERGENCY SERVICES
| 112
| Available on Cell phones.
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