'Life not even scratching surface of number of children in need'

GEORGE NEWS - Life Community Services is not even scratching the surface of the number of children who are in dire need of the services that the organisation provides.

This is according to Life's CEO, Maryna de Vries, who spoke at their annual general meeting at Shofar Church on Wednesday 25 August.

"This past year has certainly been interesting, exciting and at the same time, a massive challenge. The 'clean-up' after Covid was a challenge and the needs are even more pronounced than the previous year, the reason being that many families have lost not just income, but other family members," she said.

Life's income declined by 16% from the previous financial period.

She said Life is grateful for local surfing Olympic silver medal winner Bianca Buitendag who uses her platform for the good of the organisation, gaining interest, funds and friends for Life and especially Life Christian Academy.

"The Lord truly carried us this past year. So many visitors [were received] and incredible doors are opening for us as we stay true to our calling of touching lives and mending hearts. The goal is to reach children with the whole gospel of stimulating their minds, bodies, souls and spirit."

Chairman James Robb said, in a letter read to the meeting in his absence, that the organisation is looking to expand its premises, including the Life Village in Parkdene, and establishing more permanent bases in surrounding communities.

"We remain completely dependent on the Lord through our amazing friends and partners to continually sustain Life in prayer, encouragement, finances, donations and volunteering."

In 2021, Grade 6 was added to Life Christian Academy where iAfrika and iStore donated iPads to improve interactive learning. Life also purchased a property for its Happy Feet Learning Centre and managed to add two classrooms to the centre.

It has launched the registration of the Thembalethu Learning Centre with the Department of Social Development, which is still in process.

At the ministry centres, children were given daily hot meals, toiletries, clothing and blankets made possible through various donations.

The Isipho Facebook Shop was opened, as well as the shop at 122 Cradock Street where quality handwork is being sold. The products are of such good quality that they are suitable for export.

Furthermore, the Thembalethu Clothing Sales Project got off the ground and second-hand items are being sold at Thembalethu Square, creating a sustainable income for women.

The organisation has also managed to increase its "Sponsor a Child" number by 12 from 66 to 78. The aim for 2023 is to reach 100 sponsored children.

People who would like to get involved in Life Community Services are welcome to contact the office on 044 873 6601.