Medical Students help Women at Bloem Shelter
Bloem Shelter for Women was assigned to a group of third-year medical students with the purpose to better the facilities at the shelter and to strengthen the assistance of the University to the community.
Eight medical students in their third year at the University of the Free State worked so well with their community service project at Bloem Shelter in Andries Pretorius Street in Bloemfontein, that they spent even more time there than the required time for their service learning project. The students have been working at the shelter for homeless abused women and children since January 2012. They painted the walls, started a vegetable garden, bought computers and set up a computer center, repaired and painted the roof.
They also provide counseling for shelter residents presented with the help of six Master's students of the university's psychology department.
They had dinner and tea parties at the shelter, where they also talked with the women and their stories were heard.
Mr Izak Botes, manager of Bloem Shelter, said the students have helped many people. "It makes life easier for our residents. It also teaches the students about the community. "
The students raised money and also used their own money for things like paint and tinned food for the residents.
The Shelter is home for 25 women aged between 14 and 60.
"It was certainly a learning experience. The practical experience showed us firsthand what it's like to stay in a shelter."
The Bloem Shelter Website
http://www.bloemshelter.co.za/
Bloem Shelter is a Christian organization that is a registered NPO providing shelter for the homeless, catering for women, women with children, the elderly, men and frail persons.
God’s vision never lacks God’s provision”.
These words have been the guiding light for Izak Botes, a family man who has taken it upon himself to provide and care for over 75 homeless people in Bloemfontein.
Veggies in tyres planted by the medical students
Faculty of Health Sciences contributes to Mandela Day
Mandela Day has become synonymous with the 67 minute campaign where individuals contribute 67 minutes of their day to help a community.
The Faculty of Health Sciences decided to do their part for the inhabitants of Bloem Shelter for Women. Before and after photo's also available on the Bloem Shelter website.
Welwillendheidsprojek met 'n verskil, Bloemfontein Courant, 8 August 2012 (in Afrikaans only).
Click hear to read more about Bloem Shelter.