Human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) has had a profound effect on children and families in sub-Saharan Africa, increasing the need for effective support. Because the large number of children affected by AIDS (CABA) often exceeds the capacity of local families to care for them, state agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and a wide variety of community-based organizations (CBOs) have become essential partners in caring for HIV/AIDS affected children. Faith-based organizations (FBOs) are a primary source of care for many children, yet relatively little is known about FBOs’ specific approaches and services. National governments are also relying increasingly on FBOs to help them meet the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and fulfill their responsibilities under the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC). This article looks at two FBOs in South Africa providing care to HIV-affected families and children and explores the extent to which each addresses the objectives of the MDGs and CRC. Both organizations provide important services with regard to the MDGs and Article 6 of the CRC, which relates to life, survival and development. However, the extent to which the two organizations respected Article 3 of the CRC, which relates to prioritizing the nuclear family and preserving the identity of the child, differed.
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