Save an orphan care center in South Africa

Summary

In South Africa, HIV still looms large, and children continue to be made vulnerable by it. Many adults in Zonkzizwe are HIV+, and kids continue to lose parents. We've partnered with a community-based orphan care center that has risen to address this issue. They're now at risk of losing the center because they don't own the land. Your support will help us buy a new plot of land on which to relocate the center and continue providing vital services that have been delivered for the past five years.

What is the issue, problem, or challenge?

Over time, the center and its caretakers have been successful in promoting positive changes in how people think and act. Through regular HIV testing of children and youth served and specific HIV/AIDS awareness events (e.g., World AIDS Day candlelight vigil), the center has become a beacon of hope, a source of unity, and a catalyst for social change. Without it, limited models of positive change may undo the progress that's been made and reinforce an unjust status quo.

How will this project solve this problem?

By purchasing a plot of land and moving the center's four buildings to a new location, the center's caretakers will have rightful ownership of the land. This will avert increased hardship those served by the center might face and provide a level of certainty that the caretakers can continue their mission both now and in the future.

Potential Long Term Impact

With rightful ownership of the land, the center's caretakers can leave the threat of eviction behind and focus on improving their programs and services, while also making material improvements to the center's facilities. As owners, the caretakers can develop workforce and livelihood development initiatives, including computer and technology training for young adults. These new programs will be critical to addressing the cycle of intergenerational poverty and joblessness in this remote township.

Project Message

As an HIV+ woman, I've seen the impact HIV/AIDS has on the children, youth, and families in my community, and I want to continue providing love, hope, and care to all of them.
- Christina "Nomusa" Buthelezi, Director,Vumundzuku-bya Vana/Our Children's Future

Resources

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