ZAF145 Care and guidance for orphans (Thembalethu)
projectdescription
The community center of Thembalethu, South Africa, takes in orphans or abandoned children who are suffering because of poverty, injustice and disease. Staff at the center want to provide them with a safe, Christian environment and offer practical help. By assessing their needs, they can provide them with relevant and sustainable assistance. These needs are of a physical, social-emotional, educational or spiritual nature. An investment that noticeably makes these children feel better!
why this project?
In Thembalethu leven ruim honderd kinderen die worden beschouwd als zeer kwetsbaar. Deze kinderen, jonger dan 18 jaar, lopen een aanzienlijk risico wat betreft hun veiligheid, welzijn en ontwikkeling. Dit is het gevolg van ontoereikende zorg en bescherming. De kinderen missen de steun van ouders of familie door overlijden, verlating of ziekte. Soms hebben de kinderen zelf hiv of aids. Ze vallen buiten de sociale vangnetten in hun gemeenschap.
impact
They work together with the churches in and around Thembalethu. Through biblical training, one learns from the gospel to show the love of Christ by providing practical help. One assumes the philosophy that this works from person to person. By alleviating suffering, an atmosphere of hopelessness is transformed into an atmosphere of hope. The children are given hope for the future and learn to trust in God.
what can we learn?
Together with schools and experts in sustainable development, one is looking for 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 orphan can have a good future too.
