ZAMBIA RED CROSS SOCIETY LAUNCHES PHASE FOUR OF OVC PROGRAM TO ENHANCE HEALTH, PSYCHOSOCIAL, AND EDUCATIONAL SUPPORT FOR VULNERABLE CHILDREN

Since its beginning, the Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC) program has made great progress in improving the lives of vulnerable children by providing them with essential educational materials like uniforms and books, as well as the support they need to succeed in school. This program has also seen many children successfully enroll in school.

In line with our strategic goal 2, “People Lead Safe, Healthy, and Dignified Lives and Have Opportunities to Thrive”, Zambia Red Cross Society (ZRCS) has launched Phase Four of the OVC program. This phase focuses on addressing health, psychosocial, and educational needs of orphans and vulnerable children, which aligns with ZRCS’s mission to save and improve the quality of life for vulnerable communities in Zambia.

This phase builds on the success of earlier phases while introducing new approached to better serve orphans and vulnerable children. A major addition is the expanded psychosocial support program, which focuses on the emotional and psychological needs of children affected by HIV/AIDS, including those living with HIV, HIV-exposed infants, children with HIV-positive caregivers, orphans, and those at risk of HIV. Through counseling and emotional support, ZRCS helps these children cope with trauma, loss, and stigma, allowing them to rebuild their lives and look toward the future with hope.

Another new approach in Phase Four is the inclusion of COVID-19 information and support, aimed at protecting children and their caregivers. ZRCS provides accurate information on COVID-19 prevention and response, helping communities stay informed and resilient during the pandemic. This safeguards both the physical and emotional well-being of vulnerable children.

As Phase Four moves forward, Zambia Red Cross Society remains dedicated to making a lasting impact. Through collaboration with stakeholders and the Ministry of Health, we focus on building capacity and encouraging community-driven initiatives. This ensures that orphans and vulnerable children not only survive but also thrive. Each new effort strengthens our mission to improve the lives of Zambia’s most vulnerable, creating a legacy of compassion, resilience, and hope.

Phase Four of the OVC program, supported by the International Federation for Red Cross and Red Crescent (IFRC) and the Japanese Red Cross, brings together various stakeholders to ensure its success. Government ministries, including Health, Agriculture, Education, and Social Welfare, play a key role in providing services and support. ZRCS leads the initiative through our project coordinators, care facilitators, and volunteers. Community leaders, including traditional and religious groups, who are actively involved in mobilizing and engaging local communities.

Looking ahead, ZRCS is focused on sustaining local ownership, expanding partnerships, and strengthening support systems to maximize impact. The OVC program, aligned with ZRCS’s strategic goal of helping people lead safe, healthy, and dignified lives, stands as a testament to ZRCS’s unwavering commitment to humanity.