Empowering Children: Help us Transform Lives

Join us in making a difference in the lives of children in Limpopo, South Africa! We had the privilege of working with the Ndlovu Care Group, a non-governmental organization making a real impact in the rural community. However, some of the children and centers we encountered lacked basic necessities such as wheelchairs, toys, and learning aids. We want to empower these kids and communities, but we need your help. Every cent counts towards improving their lives and providing them with the tools they need to thrive. Let's come together and make a lasting impact! You can read some of the children's individual biographies and some ideas of things we'd like to give them below. We are open to further ideas and appreciate every single penny! THANK YOU!

Tswelopele Disability and Rehabilitation Centre:

At one of the disability centers, the healthcare team works tirelessly to provide free care and support to children with cerebral palsy, down syndrome, and intellectual impairments. Unfortunately, the center lacks the necessary funds to purchase disability-friendly equipment such as wheelchairs and walkers. Despite these challenges, the children exude joy and gratitude, whilst having a place where they can be themselves and express their personalities. We believe they deserve more, and that's why we're committed to enhancing their well-being and boosting their development. Join us in empowering these incredible children and let's give them the tools they need to thrive!

UPDATE: The centre has requested building supplies, as the winter is around the corner and they would like to build a brick building to replace the thin metal house they have at the moment. Additionally, they would like to add a small kitchen, so that they can feed the children warm meals throughout the week.

Early Childhood Development Centre:

Imagine a future where every child has access to quality education and care. This is what the Ndlovu Care Group strives for in their Early Childhood Development Centre project. It all started with a mission to identify and treat malnourished and underdeveloped children in the community, but it quickly became clear that more was needed to give these kids the best possible start in life. That's why Ndlovu opened three preschools in nearby rural areas, providing education and care to children before they join the school system. The impact has been incredible, but there is still work to be done. These preschools need supplies to ensure these children can thrive and grow to their full potential. With your support, we can give them the tools they need to succeed. Together, we can create a brighter future for these children and the community they call home.

Example of items we would like to give them:

Dimakatso Abegael Ditshego (Girl sitting in the window):

Meet Dimakatso Abegael Ditshego, a vibrant and charming young girl born on August 30th, 2004. Dimakatso is not only an orphan, but she also lives with physical and learning disabilities, speech impairment, mobility issues, and epilepsy. Despite these challenges, Dimakatso is a resilient and joyful spirit who loves nothing more than hearing her name and clapping her hands.

Since the passing of her mother, Dimakatso has been cared for by her maternal aunt, who was recently approved by the Department of Social Development to become her foster care mother. Dimakatso and her aunt share a close and loving relationship, and her aunt is the primary caregiver for her daily needs.

However, their household is what is called a "granny-headed household," meaning the grandmother is the sole breadwinner and decision-maker for the family. With thirteen family members living on the property, including the family elder who owns the home, they rely heavily on two small government grants to survive: Mrs. Ditshego senior's old-age pension grant of R1800 (90 euros) and Dimakatso's disability grant of R1600 (80 euros).

Despite the challenges that this family faces, they are determined to provide for Dimakatso's needs and prioritize her well-being above all else. They take her to the Tswelopele Centre for Young People Living with Disabilities, where she can receive the care and support she needs to thrive. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dimakatso struggled to stay indoors and always looked forward to attending the center.

We hope to raise funds to support Dimakatso's ongoing care and well-being. With your help, we can ensure that Dimakatso continues to receive the love, care, and support that she deserves. Please consider donating today to help make a difference in the life of this wonderful young girl.

Phemello Mathebe (Boy sat in the corner):

Introducing Phemello Mathebe - a young boy with a fighting spirit, despite facing physical and learning disabilities from birth. Born in Philadelphia Hospital on 01 December 2015, Phemello requires constant support and care as he cannot speak, walk, or move without assistance due to multiple disabilities. His condition means that he is completely dependent on others for help with daily activities and self-care.

Phemello lives with his maternal grandmother, nine-year-old sister, and a woman relative in Ntwane. His grandmother works as a domestic worker at Loskop farms and is the sole breadwinner for the family. With Phemello's medical needs, her priorities are understandably focused on providing for her family's basic needs.

In 2017, concerns were raised about Phemello's well-being. His caregivers at Tswelopele disability centre reported that he was often left unsupervised, and even placed under the care of his young sister. The family members also occasionally locked him inside the house, and he was always unkempt with soiled and smelly nappies, leading to various sores and bedsores. These issues were addressed during social work home visits with his maternal grandmother and mother.

Despite his challenges, Phemello remains a happy child, often expressing his joy by hugging his caregivers and maintaining eye contact. The staff at the Tswelopele centre engage him by explaining things and letting him know that he is missed when he is not around. Early intervention and treatment, such as massages and sensory stimulation, could have helped Phemello's development, but unfortunately, this was not possible due to the family's lack of understanding of his condition.

Currently, Phemello's situation has improved significantly. His mother attends all his medical needs and physiotherapy sessions at Philadelphia Hospital, and he is well-cared for by his caregivers, including two dedicated volunteers. Most importantly, Phemello now attends Tswelopele disability centre from Monday to Friday, eliminating the risks of being left alone at home during the day.

The funds raised will go towards medical expenses, purchasing equipment and supplies, and providing care and support for Phemello and his family. Any contribution, no matter how small, can make a significant difference in Phemello's life. Let's come together to support this amazing boy and help him achieve his full potential. Thank you for your generosity and kindness.