The KidsCan! project arose from a need for a youth development project in the Hangklip-Kleinmond area. The problem being that many children living in the rural Hangklip-Kleinmond area do not have access to a safe environment that is conducive to learning after school. Most parents work late into the afternoon or evening, which leaves many children without adult supervision. Kidscan! was thus born to provide a safe space for guidance and learning.
KidsCan! is a non-profit organisation that serves as an after school care facility and learning centre. The children receive supervision in a structured extra-curricular programme that is run by qualified volunteer teachers, child care workers and other volunteers. At the centre the children receive help with their homework, a light meal and snack. They also get to express themselves through art, music and other creative forms.
On top of this the children sometimes take part in team-building exercises like beach clean ups, have opportunities to be a part of activities that develop their confidence and communication skills (like taking part in a play) and holiday programmes that include fun, educational activities.
There is a Numeracy and literacy Development where qualified maths language teachers assist children in improving their numeracy and literacy skills.
To help fund this project a group of unemployed women from the area decorate and sell recycled tin cans. Fabric off-cuts, buttons and beads are donated in order for these ladies to decorate the cans. The colourful and unique designs of these hand-made items are perfect as a gift, pencil holder or storage for small odds and ends. The gift is personalised with a tag that bears the name of the artist behind the decorative can.
The KidsCan! initiative provides a safe learning space where underprivileged children that are vulnerable after school can improve their education and themselves. It is a positive space that will hopefully increase the children's skill, confidence, creativity and sense of self.
