Project description
At the community centre of Thembalethu, South Africa, takes in orphans or abandoned children suffering from poverty, injustice and illness. Staff at the centre aim to provide them with a safe, Christian environment and practical help. By identifying their needs, they can offer them relevant and sustainable help. Think of needs of a physical, socio-emotional, educational or spiritual nature. An investment that visibly benefits these children!
Why this project?
There are over 100 children living in Thembalethu who are considered very vulnerable. These children, under the age of 18, are at significant risk in terms of their safety, well-being and development. This is due to inadequate care and protection. The children lack the support of parents or family due to death, abandonment or illness. Sometimes the children themselves have HIV or AIDS. They fall outside the social safety nets in their communities.
Impact
There is cooperation with the churches in and around Thembalethu. Through biblical training, they learn from the gospel to show the love of Christ by offering practical help. It is based on the philosophy that this works through from person to person. By alleviating suffering, an atmosphere of hopelessness is changed into one of hope. The children gain hope for the future and learn to trust in God.
What can we learn?
Together with schools and sustainable development experts, they seek solutions for the future. Through education and work, the cycle of poverty is broken and these children regain their self-esteem. They can become positive role models for their peers and grow up to be active, responsible adults within their communities. An orphaned child can also have a bright future.
