Badisa Elsies River Social Worker's Megan Brown, Grizelda Grootboom and Keya van der Berg were in studio to tell us more about the work that they do in our community. They are the 90 Day Team and they investigate any case to make sure that the outcome for the child is safe, secure and healthy for the child. They promote children's rights and their right to have access to everything that can lead to a successful life. Badisa is a registered South African nonprofit and public benefit organisation focused on protecting vulnerable people, with a strong emphasis on children. It operates mainly in the Western, Northern, and Eastern Cape through community-based programs. badisa.org.za Badisa Trio is the Cape Town branch serving the Northern Suburbs - Bellville, Durbanville, Brackenfell, Kraaifontein, and Scottsdene. In 2024/2025, their 19 social workers assisted 12,281 people. What they do: Prevention services: Education on children’s rights, the Children’s Act, recognizing abuse, and safety programs like free puppet shows for schools and churches. Early intervention: Identify and support children in high-risk situations before harm escalates. Statutory services: Court work, forensic assessments, and placing children in protective care when needed. Family reintegration: Help children return safely to families or suitable alternative care. Other services: Foster parenting, adoption, early childhood development, substance disorder treatment, and residential care for older persons and adults with disabilities. Child Protection Month runs throughout May in South Africa, with Child Protection Week usually 29 May – 5 June. The 2026 launch happened on 3 May in eDumbe, KwaZulu-Natal, under the theme “Working together in ending violence against children”. It’s led by the Department of Social Development in partnership with civil society organisations like Badisa. The goal is to raise awareness of children’s rights under the Constitution and the Children’s Act. Why it matters now: Latest data shows 8,984 reported cases of child abuse in 2025/26, including 3,258 sexual abuse cases. The Minister of Social Development has stressed that abuse must be reported, not concealed, and perpetrators must face the law. How you can get involved locally: Invite a Badisa social worker to speak at your church or community group Volunteer or donate items like blankets, toiletries, school supplies, or food Become a foster parent or sponsor a child through the “Adopt a Badisa Poppie” campaign Join campaigns like #ThursdaysInBlack If you need help or to report abusing Command Centre: 0800 428 428 or _120_7867#Childline South Africa: 116 Badisa does a lot of on-the-groundwork in Cape Town, so if you’re in Parkwood or the Northern Suburbs, they’re often the first point of contact for child protection cases.