As part of our contribution to Nelson Mandela Day 2024, Vista Newspaper, part of local newspapers in the Free State, will select three charities in the distribution area of Vista to be featured.
The Itumeleng Children’s Home, Thabong, is a nonprofit organisation that was founded in 2012 in Welkom.
It was founded on humanitarian principles to serve and support the vulnerable children of Welkom, particularly those without parents.
In response to the worsening situation concerning vulnerability in South African children, the organisation has dedicated with professional volunteers to provide support to a wide range of children in its care.
At present, the Itumeleng Children’s Home is rendering services to 125 orphans and 50 senior citizens.
Itumeleng is a Sotho word meaning rejoice, and the organisation stands for protection and empowerment of children, giving them hope and strengthening their capacity to be the best they can be.
“The organisation believes in the inherent potential in human beings. They ensure effective delivery of health, nutrition, education and social services as vehicles of social change.
“Most children from surrounding high density suburbs and informal settlements are exposed to crammed living conditions, inadequate food and rampant drug and alcohol abuse,” says Itumeleng Dwaba of the Itumeleng Children’s Home.
The majority of these children are orphaned and vulnerable living in single-parent headed, grandparent headed or child-headed households.
“Our community development approach aims to address historical imbalances through collective empowerment, facilitating processes that help the poor, vulnerable and marginalised to regain control over their lives.”
At present, the Itumeleng Children’s Home is rendering services to 125 orphans and 50 senior citizens.
