GEORGE NEWS - Elpida’s Renewal Hub in Blanco, officially opened on Saturday 10 October, is a safe place for children of this community to learn, receive emotional support and discover their potential.

The hub, housed at AGS Elim Church, opened to children two months ago and is already serving 120 children, according to Alette Marais, founder of Elpida and the non-profit organisation Love Looks Like Something.

The programme offers homework assistance, literacy and mathematics support, mentoring, counselling, nutrition and recreational activities, addressing challenges that can prevent children from reaching their full potential.

“The fact that the Renewal Hub has become a reality is an answer to prayer. Elim opened their church to us, and we were able to start the first part of our vision. The Renewal Hub is really the heart of this vision,” said Marais.

Abigail Marais, head of education and children’s ministry at Elpida, said she is already witnessing emotional growth among the children. “Children need time, emotional support and love. When you give them that, you discover endless potential in them, even in the most difficult ones.”

Alicia Strydom, a Grade 7 teacher at Kretzenshoop Primary School, said learners attending the hub showed improved confidence, classroom participation and preparedness. Some had joined the school’s marching and drilling band or dance group.

For children experiencing trauma, the hub has become a safe haven where they feel accepted and supported, she said.

A Grade 3 teacher at the school, Stephné Muller, also reported improved emotional development and self-confidence in a boy attending the hub, despite difficult circumstances at home.

Learners give a dance performance. Photo: Matthias Noettling

Garden Route District Municipality Mayor Marais Kruger praised the initiative, saying investing in children was essential for developing future leaders. “You are doing the Lord’s work in Blanco,” he said. He thanked the Elpida team for the difference it was making in children’s lives.

Bigger plans ahead

The Renewal Hub forms part of Elpida’s broader vision to establish an independent educational centre. An open property across the road from the hub is earmarked for future development.

Plans include an early childhood development centre for about 80 children and a girls’ high school accommodating between 150 and 200 learners in Grades 8 to 12. A boys’ high school and skills campus are envisaged for a later phase.

The proposed high school would combine academic education with vocational training in fields such as agriculture, nursing, education, IT and entrepreneurship.

Engrossed at one of the desks in the Renewal Hub is Angenique Kirkwood. In the background is her twin sister, Alexine. Photo: Matthias Noettling

Elpida grew out of Love Looks Like Something’s community work, which began with feeding hungry children and expanded into broader educational and family support.

To support the initiative or learn more, contact Alette Marais on 063 771 7817 or visit www.elpidageorge.co.za.

 Jewel Jonkers (left), head of education in the Eden and Central Karoo District, and GRDM Mayor Marais Kruger cut the ribbon. Looking on are Jeanne Erasmus (Elpida’s executive director and operations manager), Carla Galant (non-executive director and communications) and Alette Marais (Elpida founder and CEO of Love Looks Like Something). Photo: Melissa du Plooy

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