Hot Cares backs Teddy Bear Foundation’s vital work

Every child has a right to feel safe — especially when they’re navigating one of the most traumatic chapters of their young life. For the children who pass through the doors of the Teddy Bear Foundation, the journey to justice is filled with fear, uncertainty, and deep emotional wounds. But thanks to the unwavering compassion of this remarkable organisation, no child walks that path alone.

This Child Protection Week, Hot Cares paid a special visit to the Teddy Bear Foundation to witness their work firsthand. Our very own Tara Penny joined Dr Shaheda Omar, Clinical Director and Board Member, in a heartfelt conversation inside the organisation’s mock courtroom in Parktown — a space designed to prepare young survivors for the intimidating realities of the justice system.

As Dr Omar explained, “We’re not just helping children testify. We’re helping them heal.” From court preparation programmes and canine therapy to policy reform and community outreach, the Foundation’s trauma-informed approach is changing lives, one child at a time.

Each month, the Teddy Bear Foundation supports around 150 children as they prepare to appear in court — not with fear, but with understanding, confidence, and a sense of control. Their work is not a luxury. It’s a necessity.

Moved by the magnitude and depth of their impact, Hot Cares is proud to cover the full monthly cost of this critical court preparation programme — to the value of R30,000.

Because behind every brave testimony is a child who deserves to be heard, held, and healed.