Community Support & Welfare
Social Services

Providing support, protection, and empowerment to vulnerable communities and individuals across Mutare Rural District.

The Social Services Department of Mutare Rural District Council is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all residents, with special focus on vulnerable groups. We provide a range of programs aimed at social protection, community development, and individual empowerment.

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Vulnerable Groups Support

Comprehensive assistance programs for orphans, elderly, people with disabilities, and other vulnerable community members.

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Community Development

Programs that strengthen community cohesion, promote social inclusion, and support community-led initiatives.

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Gender & Child Protection

Initiatives promoting gender equality, preventing gender-based violence, and protecting children's rights.

Our Approach

Our social services follow a rights-based, participatory approach that empowers communities and individuals while protecting the most vulnerable members of society.

Community-Centered

Working with communities to identify their needs and develop appropriate, sustainable solutions.

Rights-Based

Ensuring all interventions uphold the dignity and rights of individuals and communities.

Multi-Sectoral Collaboration

Partnering with government departments, NGOs, and community organizations for comprehensive support.

Social Services Impact Statistics

3,200+

Vulnerable Individuals Supported

45

Community Support Groups

28

Wards with Active Programs

82%

Satisfaction Rate

Vulnerable Groups We Serve

Orphans and Vulnerable Children

Educational support, psychosocial services, nutrition assistance, and protection services for children in difficult circumstances.

Elderly Citizens

Social pensions, home-based care, recreational activities, and support for income-generating projects.

People with Disabilities

Assistive devices, vocational training, accessibility advocacy, and social inclusion programs.

Women at Risk

GBV prevention and response, economic empowerment, legal aid, and safe spaces.

Youth

Life skills training, career guidance, recreational facilities, and leadership development.

Current Social Programs

Food Security Program

Household Food Security Program

Location: All 36 wards

Scope: Nutrition support, agricultural inputs, and food-for-work programs for vulnerable households

Beneficiaries: 1,500+ households monthly

Ongoing Program Details
GBV Prevention Program

Gender-Based Violence Prevention

Location: Wards 5, 12, 18, 22, 27, 31

Scope: Awareness campaigns, support services, and community mobilization against GBV

Status: Expanded to 6 new wards in 2023

Youth Empowerment Program

Youth Skills Development Program

District Youth Centers

Scope: Vocational training, entrepreneurship development, and life skills education

Beneficiaries: 350+ youth annually

Ongoing Learn More

Social Services FAQs

How can I access social welfare assistance?

You can access assistance by: Visiting your nearest ward council office, contacting your village/ward social services committee, or calling our helpline. You'll need to complete an application form and provide relevant documentation (ID, proof of income, etc.). Our social workers will conduct an assessment to determine eligibility.

What criteria are used to identify vulnerable households?

We use multiple criteria including: Household composition (child-headed, elderly-headed), disability status, income level, food security status, health status, and social factors such as isolation or discrimination. Assessments are conducted by trained social workers using standardized tools.

How does the council support people with disabilities?

Support includes: Registration and certification of disabilities, assistive devices provision, referral for specialized services, vocational training, advocacy for rights and accessibility, and support for income-generating projects. We also work to make council facilities and services accessible.

What should I do if I need to report child abuse or neglect?

Report immediately to: Your ward social worker, the council's Child Protection Committee, police Victim Friendly Unit, or call our child protection hotline. All reports are treated confidentially and investigated promptly by trained personnel. We also provide support and protection for victims.