HI HOPES Home Intervention project
2023-2024
HI HOPES
Early Childhood Development and specialised early intervention for deaf and hard-of-hearing infants.
HI HOPES is a comprehensive initiative that provides educational resources, specialised therapy, and a supportive community network to empower families in nurturing their deaf child’s development and ability to communicate.
Amount awarded by LIFSA :
R160,000.00
Number of direct beneficiaries :
8152
This family-centred, home-based programme offered free support and unbiased information to families of infants with hearing loss. Using a network of trained Home Intervention Specialists and Deaf Mentors, the project conducted bi-weekly visits focused on language development (including South African Sign Language), cultural sensitivity, and parental empowerment within the child’s natural home environment. 547 families received support through 8,152 individual home visits, significantly exceeding the original target of 18 families. Established in 2006 and registered as an NPO in 2010, HI HOPES is the only home-based early childhood intervention programme in Africa offering these specialised services. Key partners include DeafBlind South Africa, DeafSA, and the Wits Centre for Deaf Studies. The project maintains strict neutrality regarding communication methods, supporting sign language, spoken language, or a combination based on the unique needs and the choices of each family. The initiative’s success is highlighted by the measurable progress children made in closing language development gaps during the intervention period.