For Eunice, caring for her granddaughter Owam means being there through hospital visits, finding ways to put food on the table and doing everything she can to help her grow. In their home in Nyanga, Cape Town, that love is constant. But meeting their everyday needs is a challenge.

Their journey together began during a time of loss. Eunice recalls first meeting Owam when she was about eight months old, after the death of her son, Owam’s father. Following his funeral, Owam remained in her grandmother’s care.

Eunice was grieving her son while taking on the responsibility of raising a young child. And Owam was unwell.

Visits to local clinics revealed a problem with Owam’s heart, eventually bringing them to the Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital. There, Eunice shared their circumstances with the doctors: she was an older caregiver, raising her granddaughter with limited financial support.

“We are all dependent on my social grant income for clothing, food and even rent,” she explains.

Her words reveal how closely a child’s health is connected to life at home. Alongside medical care, Owam needed food, clothing and a way to get to her hospital appointments. Eunice needed support to make that possible.

The doctors referred their case to the hospital’s Social Work Department, where Eunice met social worker Vuyo. Through this connection and the support of the Family Care Project, they found help with some of the pressures they faced each day.

Food parcels and clothing became an important source of relief. Eunice describes being able to turn to Vuyo when there was no food at home, and for help with Owam’s school needs. The Family Care Project also assists with transport for Owam’s regular check-ups, helping her continue to access the care she needs.

“The food parcels make a huge difference in our lives,” Eunice says.

For a grandmother stretching a social grant across rent, food and clothing, this practical support matters deeply. It helps her care for Owam beyond the hospital walls, where so much of a child’s wellbeing takes shape.

Reflecting on her granddaughter’s progress, Eunice expresses gratitude to the hospital’s doctors and nurses, and to the Children’s Hospital Trust. She remembers how sick Owam was when she first came into her care and speaks with pride about how she has grown and developed.

Her message to those who make this support possible is simple:

“I would like to encourage people to continue donating. We rely on their help.”

Eunice and Owam’s story shows what it means to support the family around a child. Through the Family Care Project, donor generosity becomes something families can use: food on the table, clothing and transport to essential appointments.

Help more families like Eunice and Owam’s access the support they need. Donate to the Children’s Hospital Trust and help care for children beyond the hospital doors.