The Missionvale Care Centre (MCC) is a non-profit organization situated in the heart of Missionvale, Port Elizabeth, South Africa. This community is severely impacted by poverty and substance abuse. The MCC’s efforts to support the community encompass education, skill development, youth development, community empowerment, and health and wellness. 

MCC’s partnership with Khirana Healthcare has enhanced several aspects of the care centre’s work. This includes capacity building for youth development programs, enabling them to effectively utilize evidence-based approaches. These approaches involve support groups based on the 12-step program (Minnesota model) and psychosocial first aid for addiction management using addiction-centered cognitive behavioral therapy. 

Khiran Healthcare has also provided training to the centre’s social work unit and school clinic. This equips these units to better address drug-related issues, as they are often the first point of contact for community members facing these challenges. 

Recently, Khirana Healthcare trained the teachers at Normoyle Primary School, an MCC school, in evidence-based drug education and prevention programs. These programs have been adapted to suit the specific needs of this unique community. 

The center’s now-qualified social workers and healthcare professionals are sharing their knowledge with other organizations and schools in the surrounding communities.