Thanks to your support (and the donations of warm clothing) we held a “free shop” event for nearly 200 people in need. We had sufficient clothes for each person to be able to select several items, including scarves, jackets, jerseys, and more! With the cold and wet weather upon us, and considering that most of these dear ones live in tents or broken down dwellings, you can imagine that they each received their personal armload of clothes most appreciatively!

We heard a heartrending story, of a mother who just got out of a terrible abusive situation, and although her and her kids (including a baby) have a roof over their heads, they have almost nothing else. With heavy yet determined hearts we searched through our supplies, and were so grateful to be able to make a large food parcel for her and the kids, as well as a hamper of kids clothes, baby clothes, nappies, baby wipes, blankets, creams, pillows, Gospel material, and more! God, the Ultimate Loving Father, is capable of providing for His children, and though this dear lady and her children found themselves seemingly alone, Jesus raised up help for them!

During the month of June, we have noticed a sad trend – growing weariness and hopelessness in the face of grim news, dire long-term predictions, and loss of oppurtunities or ability for many to support themselves and their families. Many who were holding on for a breakthrough have become desperate, and truly need some care and upliftment. Thank you to those of you who back us up in prayers and support; you are a part of bringing real Hope to these dear men, women, and children. Regardless of colour or background, the heart of all longs for love and to feel noticed, and in many ways throughout June, we were blessed to be able to fulfill that longing in some way. Everything may change around us, but He is constant, and will never leave us or forsake us. (Hebrews 13:5,8)

We have been working with Baphumelele Orphanage and Centre in Khayelitsha for over 10 years, and have always been impressed with how much they do with whatever they receive. Between the children at the orphanage and the elderly in their care home they have more than 170 dependents. They also provide transport to hospital for some of the most vulnerable members of the community during these times.

Mama Rosie Mashale (founder and head of Baphumelele) has a real heart for the community (she still lives there) and is constantly improving and expanding her efforts. Thanks to generous sponsors, we are thrilled to have been able to provide them with a large quantity of foodstuffs, (both fresh and longer-lasting) as well as extra blankets for the children!

The small leadership team at this rehab centre is doing an amazing job, and the men going through the process of recovery are so kind and forthcoming. We brought them toiletry packs, clothes, shoes, and a variety of foodstuffs – both staples and special treats! They also deeply enjoyed personal copies of “Who Cares” (encouraging messages from Jesus) and many issues of the Activated Gospel magazine.

We brought much needed supplies to the Sive Nathi Care Centre for disabled children, for which they were so very grateful!
Upon arrival we were heartbroken to learn that one of the children had passed away suddenly just that morning. Thankfully, we had the time to stay and speak to the staff to encourage them, and also pray with them; comforting them with the assurance that for this precious boy his suffering is over, and he is safe in the arms of Jesus. It was a moving time for us and them.

We got in a surprise donation of pet food and litter, which we were able to pass on to the Fisantekraal Animal Welfare team, and which we know they will put to good use!

What a joy and privilege to be right there, seeing the light of wonder in these dear one’s eyes as they came up to receive special parcels – a large pack of chicken, flour, and eggs each, as well as apples and sandwiches for immediate enjoyment! They also got a Gospel Activated magazine to take home. With full bags, they walked away, some of the younger ones cheerfully struggling under their load, and everyone happy!