Volunteer at a Community Clinic serving the underprivileged and supporting the clinic's staff with their daily tasks.
About the Program
For those able to afford it, the private healthcare system in South
Africa meets developed world standards. However, the public healthcare system,
which serves 80% of the population, faces serious challenges. The urbanization
of the country has put serious strain on the hospitals in Cape Town: many have
too few beds, doctors and medicine. Infectious diseases like typhoid fever and
hepatitis are prevalent, largely because of poor public health, and HIV/AIDS
remaining a devastating plague.
Volunteers work in community clinics serving poor populations. They share
their expertise and insights with the local staff and, as needed and allowed by
the local nurses and doctors, help to provide care. Volunteers live and work in
Cape Town or the surrounding areas.
Structure and Facilities
- Most of the medical projects are understaffed and there is a lack of resources and therefore this can be a very stressful and challenging environment to work in
- Government funded facilities for people who cannot afford private medical care
- No major operations are done here
Typical day
- Observing
- Supporting the staff
- Helping with rehabilitation
- Sharing health information
- Assist patients to get around the hospital
- Weighing patients
- Other tasks that might come up
Free-time activities
Cape Town is one of Africa’s most popular tourist destinations for a reason. Its beaches, such as Camp’s Bay, are world renown, and Cape Town’s beachfront and downtown areas are lively at any time. During the day it is easy to find artisans selling their crafts or outdoor cafes to enjoy the Mediterranean climate. At night, there are many excellent bars, clubs and restaurants where locals and foreigners can relax and socialize.
There are numerous cultural sites to visit, including the Bo-Kaap neighborhood and the Castle of Good Hope. They reflect Cape Town’s long history and help explain why the city is one of the most multicultural in the word. Robben Island, the infamous prison where political prisoners, including Nelson Mandela, were held during apartheid is a difficult but necessary stop. For outdoor lovers, Cape Town has a wide mix of opportunities. Table Mountain is a breathtaking spot to visit, and there are many nearby hills, mountains and trails that make for great biking, climbing and hiking. Many, like Lion’s Head Mountain, also offer stunning views over the city and ocean below. Join in on tours down the Garden Route and a Game Drive to spot the Big 5!
Program Requirements
Suitable for
Included Services
Before your journey
On-site services
Placement in a suitable project and volunteer house - Placement inventory information prior to arrival in South Africa - Transfer from the airport to the SASTS house - Transfer to SASTS office for Orientation - Orientation program, including welcome session and Orientation Session - Meals and accommodation at volunteer house -
At additional cost: Access to email, internet and mail holding facility at the SASTS House; Transportation from the accommodation to the project site and back.
Volunteers will be collected at Cape Town International Airport on the Set Arrival Date. A representative from the shuttle company will have a signboard with SASTS on it to meet you. If you cannot find the representative because your flight is early or delayed, please look out for SASTS. If you are unable to see anyone, please make your way to the information desk in the main terminal as the driver will page for you.
Volunteers are either placed at the SASTS in the house city or with a host family in the local community outside the city. The SASTS House can accommodate up to 30 volunteers at a time (5 dorm-style rooms sleeping between 4-8 people) , on-site, live-in SASTS hostel manager, fully-equipped kitchen and communal lounge area with satellite TV, fully-fitted bathroom with 4 showers and 3 toilets, individual lockers for each volunteer, WiFi internet connection, located centrally on transport route close to supermarkets, internet café, laundries, restaurants, etc.
Breakfast and dinner is provided Monday to Friday only. Lunch and weekend meals are the volunteer's expense. Breakfast is self help and normally includes coffee, tea with bread and cereal. Dinner includes a wide variety of dishes featuring food such as chicken or beef with beans, pasta, vegetable or rice. Dinner may also include a salad or soup.
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Program Fees
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