In a world often driven by self-interest, Michelin, a globally recognised tyre manufacturer committed to promoting safe and sustainable mobility, stands out with its CARE IN ACTION programme. This initiative mirrors Michelin’s core value of “Respect for People” by empowering employees to nominate non-profit organisations aligned with their passion for community improvement and altruism.
One noteworthy nomination comes from Ms. Lebo Hlatshwayo, a Recruitment Consultant at Michelin, who nominated the Teddy Bear Foundation. Lebo expressed her deep pride in being associated with an organisation dedicated to giving back to the community, stating, “The work that Teddy Bear Foundation doestouches my heart deeply. I am passionate about empowering and developing young children and the youth to recognise the power within themselves. I’m also so proud to be involved with an organisation that is focused on partnering with its staff to make an impact in their communities. In particular by openly and generously partnering with The Teddy Bear Foundation in its pursuit to bring about impactful change and influence in the sphere of children’s and women’s safety so as to end the abuse cycle. I believe that together, we can make a significant impact in the lives of these children and their families.”
The Teddy Bear Foundation (TBF) initially began as a medico-legal outpatient facility affiliated with Johannesburg Hospital and the University of the Witwatersrand’s Department of Paediatrics. Its primary mission was to conduct medical examinations, generate reports, and provide medical expertise for cases involving abused children. As demand for support grew, TBF expanded to offer court preparation, therapeutic services, and forensic assessments for children and families. This expansion included hiring additional staff and establishing a therapeutic unit that offered counselling and therapy.
Recognising the need for greater accessibility, TBF created branches in Krugersdorp and Soweto and formed partnerships with organisations like the National Prosecuting Authority to provide comprehensive support to abused children. In 2002, TBF registered officially as an NPO, introducing innovative programmes like SPARC (SUPPORT PROGRAMME FOR ABUSE REACTIVE CHILDREN) to help children with harmful and problematic sexual behaviour. They now provide a wide range of services, from court preparation to victim support, psychological testing, and preventative outreach programmes, which Include GBV, and Child Pregnant Learner support.
TBF’s overarching mission is to minimise harm experienced by children and families involved in the child protection system. They aim to create a society free from child abuse. To achieve these goals, TBF offers holistic child protection services, including Kids Court Support, Victim Empowerment, Counselling, Forensic Assessments, Support for Abuse Reactive Children, Medical Examinations, Psychological Assessments, and Training. Their objectives encompass supporting victims and families, aiding the broader child protection network, preventing further victimisation, running diversion programmes, and offering education and support.
Despite their impactful work, TBF faces challenges, including intermittent internet connectivity, food insecurity among the children they serve, increasing after-hours calls, and the need for reliable funding to expand their services.
In response to Michelin’s support, Ms. Shaheda Omar, Director at TBF, expressed profound gratitude: “TBF is profoundly grateful for the invaluable assistance and recognition extended by Michelin. With Michelin’s support, we are empowered to extend our reach and assist more children on their journey to healing. This partnership has the potential to change the lives of children forever through the impactful interventions made possible by Michelin’s generous funding. The R60,000 donation will undoubtedly go a long way in bolstering the effectiveness of our programmes, enabling us to continue our mission of creating a safer and brighter future for the children we serve.”
Michelin’s commitment to community betterment and supporting organisations like TBF exemplifies its dedication to its core values and the broader well-being of society. Through partnerships like this, they aim to create a safer and more promising future for children and their families.
