Unverified reports indicate that Zambia has over 1.3 million Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVCs), most of whom are affected or infected with HIV/AIDS. Most of these children live with the grandmothers while over 14000 live on the streets and over 20000 homes are child headed homes. These children do not have the support or family structures they need to thrive. Without access to education they face a lifetime of poverty. Our Holistic Care for Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVCs) project is designed to provide comprehensive support and services to children who have lost one or both parents, or are otherwise vulnerable due to factors such as poverty, HIV/AIDS, or displacement. The aim of our project is to address not only the immediate needs of the children but also their long-term well-being, encompassing various aspects of their lives. Here are the key components of our OVC support program;

1. Basic Needs Provision:
   • Food and Nutrition: Ensure access to nutritious meals and address issues of food insecurity.
   • Shelter: Provide safe and stable housing for OVCs.
2. Education:
   • School Enrollment: Facilitate enrollment in formal education, including covering school fees, uniforms, and supplies.
   • Educational Support: Offer tutoring, mentoring, and other forms of academic support.
3. Healthcare:
   • Medical Care: Ensure access to basic healthcare services and regular check-ups.
   • Immunization: Facilitate vaccination programs to protect against preventable diseases.
   • Mental Health Support: Provide counseling and mental health services as needed.
4. Psychosocial Support:
   • Counseling Services: Offer emotional support and counseling to help children cope with trauma and loss.
   • Community-Based Support Groups: Create safe spaces for OVCs to share experiences and build a sense of community.
5. Income Generation and Economic Empowerment:
   • Skills Training: Provide vocational training and skills development programs for older OVCs.
   • Support for Caregivers: Assist caregivers in income-generating activities to enhance overall household stability.
6. Legal Support:
   • Birth Registration: Ensure that all OVCs have proper legal documentation, including birth certificates.
   • Advocacy for Rights: Advocate for and protection and Safeguarding of the legal rights of OVCs.

1. Community Involvement:
   • Community Sensitization: Raise awareness about the needs and rights of OVCs within the community.
   • Community-Based Programs: Engage the community in supporting OVCs through volunteering and community projects.
2. Nutritional and Health Education:
   • Training on Health and Hygiene: Educate OVCs and their caregivers on health and hygiene practices.
   • Nutrition Education: Promote knowledge about balanced nutrition for overall health.
3. Monitoring and Evaluation:
   • Data Collection: Implement systems to track and evaluate the impact of the holistic care provided.
   • Feedback Mechanisms: Establish feedback channels involving OVCs, caregivers, and the community to improve program effectiveness.

A Holistic Care for OVCs project aims to address the multi-faceted challenges faced by vulnerable children, recognizing that their well-being is interconnected with various aspects of their lives. By providing a comprehensive set of services and support, our program strives to empower OVCs and create opportunities for them to thrive despite difficult circumstances.