Iliso Care Society is a registered non-profit organization based in Khayelitsha, with operations Western Cape and Eastern Cape. The organization began with a nutrition program in 2005. Iliso aims to encourage a caring society that acts in overcoming day to day challenges and seeks to inspire communities to be compassionate and supportive towards one another.
Iliso programs are food garden, educational, health, and welfare with home base Care focusing on HIV/AIDS, psycho-social support, and dealing with issues of gender inequality, nutrition, library, youth development, and Life skills, learner support, and job creation through EPWP. Iliso also extended its programs in 2016 to Eastern Cape Queenstown at Ntabethemba implementing life skills and home-based care and job creation through EPWP. Iliso has vast experience working with vulnerable groups to address the following challenges:
According to a study by the University of Cape Town in 2017 there were 260 000 children classified as OVCs in Western Cape. These children experience inadequate access to education, healthcare, and basic needs. They also experience emotional distress due to the loss of parents or guardians. Iliso provide services such as counselling, life skills and psychosocial support for OVCs.
The project will also target people with Disabilities: People with disabilities experience discrimination and exclusion, which limits their opportunities for a fulfilling life. Addressing accessibility issues, promoting inclusive policies, and providing assistive devices and support services are crucial in empowering people with disabilities.
Other initiatives are rolled out to HIV-positive individuals to cope with the stigma and discrimination, awareness campaigns are essential for supporting and protecting the rights of those living with HIV/AIDS.
Substance abuse is a significant concern in Khayelitsha, Cape Town. It affects individuals’ physical and mental health, strains relationships, and contributes to crime rates. Iliso work in collaboration with government, NGOs, community leadership structures, healthcare providers, and social workers to provide quality services.