For over 25 years, the Boksburg Kidz Clinic, operated by Women and Men Against Child Abuse (WMACA), has been a beacon of hope for child victims of abuse. Offering free therapy, medical and assessment reports, expert court testimony and support for police and prosecution teams, the clinic has assisted over 17 000 children from across the East Rand, says Jacaranda FM.

However, this vital institution suffered a devastating blow on New Year’s Eve when a gang ransacked, vandalised and set fire to parts of the clinic. The damage was catastrophic: from stolen medical, office and security equipment to broken toys, therapy aids, furniture and even case files, the station adds.

Jacaranda FM says that the clinic sustained losses exceeding R210 000. While police swiftly apprehended the perpetrators, none of the stolen items were recovered.

WMACA Founder Miranda Jordan described the incident as "absolutely horrific," emphasising the urgent need to rebuild the clinic as a child-friendly sanctuary of healing. "Insurance will only cover basic repairs, leaving us reliant on public and corporate support to restore critical services," Jordan says.

Despite the setback, the community has rallied behind the clinic. Essential items have been replaced, and as of Monday, 20 January, the clinic resumed its most vital services, the station adds.

Executive Director, Kevin Barbeau, says, "So many children depend on us for therapy and to ensure their cases move forward in court. We are determined to emerge stronger. Our message to these criminal gangs is clear: we will not be intimidated. We will shine brighter and assist even more children."

As it continues to support the community, Jacaranda FM's Good Morning Angels fund donated R50 000 to aid the clinic's rebuilding efforts. Together with a generous R80 000 contribution from King Price Insurance, the clinic now has R130 000 to begin replacing critical items and repairing the facility to restore a safe, welcoming environment for vulnerable children, says Jacaranda FM

"Good Morning Angels is proud to stand with the Boksburg Kidz Clinic as they rebuild after this devastating attack," Jacaranda FM's breakfast host Martin Bester says.

"The clinic's work is a lifeline for abused children and we are honoured to play a part in ensuring these vital services continue for the East Rand community," Bester adds.

With the support of donors like King Prince Insurance and Jacaranda FM's Good Morning Angels, the Boksburg Kidz Clinic is well on its way to becoming an even stronger sanctuary for vulnerable children. The team remains determined to rebuild and continue their vital work, providing a place of healing and hope for those who need it most, the station adds.

The station concludes that listeners can tune in to Good Morning Angels every Wednesday morning on Jacaranda FM's Breakfast With Martin Bester.

For more information, visit www.jacarandafm.com. You can also follow Jacaranda FM on Facebook, X, Instagram, or on TikTok. 

*Image courtesy of contributor