Behind the gates of St. Giles Medical Rehabilitation Centre in Harare, stories of resilience unfold each day. Children who once could not walk now take small but determined steps. Those who struggled to speak slowly form words that connect them with the world. Others, once dependent, learn to use their hands, to feed themselves, to play, and to dream again.
For over six decades, St. Giles has stood as a beacon of hope, living out its proud motto: “Rebuilding Lives.” More than a medical centre, it is a family that nurtures children with cerebral palsy, autism, ADHD, hydrocephalus, hearing and visual impairments, and many other conditions that demand specialised care.
However, this journey of rebuilding lives is not one that the centre can undertake alone.
As a private voluntary organisation, St. Giles survives on the generosity of donors and sponsors. It is through this lifeline of support that the centre has managed to provide physiotherapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy to children who would otherwise be left without hope. Each therapy session, each piece of equipment, and each renovated wall is a direct result of a helping hand extended by partners who chose to invest in lives.
“Our children need treadmills, standing frames, parallel bars, therapy mats, resources that change their futures,” explains physiotherapist Vanessa Maraire. “Every donation translates to movement, independence, and dignity for a child.”
Speech and language therapist Charmaine Kwanzoa echoes the same need. “Our work unlocks communication, strengthens families, and builds independence. But to fully deliver these services, we need resources and consistent support from the community.”
In the occupational therapy wing, Mercy highlights how play is transformed into therapy. “Through sensory activities and adaptive equipment, we help children with different conditions gain vital life skills. Donations make this possible.”
The physical infrastructure of the centre tells the story of urgent need. Leaking ceilings, cracked floor tiles, worn-out lockers, and aging toilets show the burden of years of underfunding. Yet, in other corners, fresh tiles, newly painted walls, and repaired fittings shine with promise, proof of what donors have already made possible through initiatives like the annual Cerebral Palsy Marathon.
Today, St. Giles stands at a critical moment. The demand for rehabilitation services continues to grow, but resources remain limited. To rebuild more hostels, fix leaking ceilings, tile bathrooms, purchase therapy equipment, and expand capacity, the centre needs committed partners.
This is not just an appeal; it is an invitation. Corporates, institutions, and individuals have the power to write the next chapter of St. Giles’ story. Every donation, whether financial, material, or through partnerships, will go directly into transforming children’s lives, restoring dignity, and giving families hope.
At St. Giles, a small contribution becomes a miracle. A tiled bathroom restores hygiene and dignity. A standing frame helps a child take their first step. A repaired ceiling gives children a safe, dry place to rest.
When you give to St. Giles, you are not only funding renovations and equipment. You are investing in futures. You are partnering in rebuilding lives.
For every child who smiles after therapy, for every parent who sheds tears of joy at their child’s progress, and for every community that embraces inclusion, the hand of the donor is felt.
Together, we can ensure that the vision of St. Giles – “Rebuilding Lives” – is not just a motto, but a lasting legacy.
