Ethembeni Stories June 2011

Ethembeni Stories June 2011

OUR YOUTH AND THEIR “PLACE OF HOPE” - ETHEMBENI
June the 16th celebrates “Youth day” in South Africa, and with this in mind we thought we’d let you have some snippets of news from the Ethembeni Family Centre. There is so much happening at the family centre on a daily basis, as children are dropped off by their siblings who rush off to school, and then the day starts……
The family centre is exactly that – a centre where the little, non school going children can be left under the gentle and loving care of the family centre staff. These little children have quite a hectic programme designed to stimulate their growth as little human beings, as well as being kept healthy through correct eating habits during the day.
Their programme includes developing their skills in various ways like, drawing, ball games, puzzles, team games, Bible stories, climbing, as well as great ways of developing their social skills.
The Ethembeni Family Centre literally brings HOPE to these children whose families are headed up by the older children, having lost their parents. This family centre accommodates approximately 70 children, which is a drop in the ocean compared to the number of families out in Mpophomeni that are affected by HIV/AIDS and need HOPE.
The most amazing sight is seen when you arrive at the family centre, and all these children greet you with enthusiasm, a smile and a huge amount of noise – they all talk at once. The Lord’s heart must be very glad when he looks at this place of refuge, for these families who are determined to survive under very difficult circumstances.
We at Ethembeni are privileged to serve, protect and love these children, and express our thanks to those of you who support the ministry with prayer, time, skills and finance……. We could not do it without you.

May the Lord richly bless you as you partner with us and bring hope to broken families.

Yours in Christ

Shân Cade
Sub-Editor