Author and founder of the Falling Forward Foundation, Rachel Kolisi, recently took to Instagram to share a deeply emotional message aimed at raising awareness about vulnerable children in South Africa.
“This will be difficult to read, but it needs to be said,” she wrote, preparing her followers for a story that highlights the realities many children face behind closed doors.
Rachel explained that over the past year, she has been working closely with the Impilo Project. During that time, one of their healthcare workers noticed an eight-year-old girl repeatedly falling asleep in class, which raised concern. A doctor was asked to assess her.
“What she shared was devastating,” Rachel said.
RACHEL KOLISI HIGHLIGHTS URGENT GAPS IN SUPPORT
Rachel revealed that the young girl had been experiencing ongoing sexual abuse while in foster care. The Impilo team acted immediately, working with partners to ensure the child’s safety and well-being.
“They went to DSD, who despite being overwhelmed and under resourced, offered the best support they could under the circumstances,” she shared.
However, challenges continued when they sought further help. “They then went to a TCC where there were no rape kits available,” Rachel wrote, pointing out a major gap in resources.
“Let that sink in,” she added, stressing the seriousness of the situation.
Rachel also highlighted the broader issue, noting that more than 100 rape cases are reported daily in South Africa, while many others go unreported. She made it clear that the lack of essential resources is unacceptable.
ORGANISATIONS STEP IN WITH CARE AND URGENCY
Despite the challenges, organisations such as Mosaic and the Saartjie Baartman Centre responded quickly to support the children.
“In the last 24 hours, organisations… have stepped in with urgency and care,” Rachel shared.
The young girl and her sister have since been removed from the unsafe environment and placed in a secure home. They are now starting over, which includes adjusting to a new school and receiving essentials like uniforms and stationery.
The home caring for them also supports other children from similar situations and depends entirely on donor funding to continue its work.
RACHEL KOLISI CALLS FOR ACTION TO SUPPORT CHILDREN
Rachel also revealed that she has officially registered the Falling Forward Foundation and plans to share more about it soon. For now, she remains focused on ensuring that these children and the organisations supporting them receive the help they need.
“If you would like to contribute, please consider donating,” she urged, while also reminding people that sharing the message is just as important.
In closing, Rachel emphasised the power of awareness and collective action. “If you can’t give, please share. Awareness matters. Pressure matters. Change only happens when we refuse to look away.”
