In early 2023, we got a call from one of our partner schools. “There is a little boy at our gate. He moved here from another province and he looks really bad. We need to help him.” And so, the journey of this wounded little soul began.
Kagiso, was 3 years old and was emaciated. His ribs protruded through his skin. His eyes were a blur of pus and infection. His little legs were so thin that we marveled at how he could walk. His hair was orange with specks of baldness. Yet what hurt us the most, was his eyes. There was no sparkle. No joy. His eyes, the window to his soul, showed darkness. He would not come near us. We put out a social media plea and within moments, a stranger put her hand up to fund him. Paying for his clothing and care whilst at school. Arranging clothing for him. Organizing a birthday present. Her heart felt his hurt.
Yesterday, we had the most amazing day. As we arrived at Kagiso’s school, he came running towards us. His hair has grown and is now a healthy color. His eyes are clear and sparkle. And then
HE SMILED!!!!
Kagiso then ran towards the sings and started merrily singing his new friend whilst they both squealed with delight. Our beautiful boy has been saved from devastation and is now safely within our Project Hope family. A place where every facet of a little child’s life is our priority.
When people ask us how they can help…well, we have a list longer than we can type. In fact, as our schools close now, our biggest challenge becomes food. Many of our children do not have access to food whilst at home. The only meals that they eat are the porridge and nutritious lunch we provide them with whilst at school.
Whilst we don’t sanction food parcels alone, we do sanction food parcels for certain children that we are working closely with. As we uplift these children, we work with their families with the ultimate goal of them being able to provide for themselves. But, no one can think, learn, look for work, or have patience if they are hungry. With almost 65% of our children facing malnutrition in the Valley of 1000 Hills, this is the perfect place for you to make a difference.
Monetary donations through our various donation platforms would be so appreciated. Visit our website https://projecthope.org.za/donate/. Please use the reference: FOOD so that we can make sure that every cent goes towards feeding our children.
If you are able to donate even one item to add to our food parcels, we would be incredibly grateful. Often an entire parcel is not financially viable for a family to purchase, yet, one item is most times a feasible blessing. Any items can be dropped off at Reception at Hillcrest Methodist Church (Monday – Friday 8-1 pm) or at The Library Bistro at Lillies Quarters Centre in Hillcrest. Please ask for Fran or otherwise tell the waiter that your donation is for Project Hope. You are also welcome to Whatsapp us on 082 435 5223 to arrange Checkers60 delivery to our Directors’ home.
|
Emergency Food Parcel Content |
|
|
1. 1 kg Maize |
12. 400g peanut butter 13. 500g sunlight green bar soap 14. 1 Tin tomato 15. 1 Tin beans 16. Tin fish 17. Carrot 18. Onions 19. Oranges 20. Sunlight green bar soap 21. Toothpaste 22. Blueseal Vaseline |
As I type this now, I googled Kagiso’s real name (his name has been changed here to ensure that we protect this vulnerable child). His name means “my share of something greater”…..
Sara Brown – Director/Founder