Middelburg Care Village

Pre-School 2011

2011-12-06T02:40:00.000-08:00

Three of our pre-school children have been enroled in Grade 1 at schools in the community for next year. The expressions and contentment on the faces of all of our pre-school children speak for themselves.

Donation by school

2011-12-06T02:36:00.000-08:00

The Grade 5 pupils of CR Swart Primary School, Middelburg donated a large amount of groceries to the Care Village. On the photo some of the proud pupils can be seen with the manager, Colin Hasses.

School Leaders

2011-11-01T02:30:00.000-07:00

Two of our children who have proved themselves to be leaders at their respective schools, are Sipho and Sezi. Sipho has been headboy of his school during 2011. Apart from being a provincial Taekwondo champion, he is also an accomplished goalkeeper in soccer. Sezi who has been selected as a leader at her school for 2012 is a good netball player. We are very proud of our two young leaders.

Donation Xstrata

2011-11-01T02:15:00.000-07:00

Thanks to a generous donation from Xstrata Coal the Care Village has been enabled to purchase a larger school bus to replace our present bus which will enable us to admit more children of school going age. On the photo can be seen Colin Hasses (Manager), Linda Els (Iveco), Basani Tshabangu (Xstrata), John Brislin (Treasurer) and Solly Mogola (Board Member).

Simotech

2011-03-23T05:36:00.000-07:00

Simotech, an official Siemans partner, in a joint venture with Sebona Driving Academy of Middelburg, are sponsoring 4 of our children in obtaining code 10 driver licenses, the purpose being to empower them in the future in their choice of careers. On the photo with the manager can be seen the directors of Simotech together with the 4 boys proudly holding the Simotech banner.

Household appliances

2011-02-11T01:36:00.000-08:00

A welcome donation of kitchen appliances, dictionaries and atlases was received from Furncor Engineering. On the photo the happy care givers (house parents) can be seen with the new household appliances.

Taekwondo Achievements

2010-11-23T02:16:00.000-08:00

An increasing number of our children are taking part in and excelling at Taekwondo. On the photo some of the children who were awarded Gold, Silver, Bronz medals during the year can been seen with their instructor, Conrad van Staden.

Matric Farewell Steelcrest High

2010-11-23T01:28:00.000-08:00

Our two Gr12 pupils at Steelcrest High School recently attended their matric farewell. As can be seen on the photo, their suits and other accessories as well as the luxury vehicles with which they attended the function, were all sponsored by The Ridge Casino and Entertainment Resort.

At the year end awards ceremony, Gift received an award for Leadership and participation in the choir while Given received awards for Exellence in Leadership and the Prestigeous Olive Branch Award for his achievements throughout the year.

M POWER RADIO & IFS DONATION

2010-06-02T02:38:00.000-07:00

Industrial Fluid Solutions (IFS) of Witbank in conjunction with M Power Radio donated a quantity of blankets and groceries to the Care Village as part of a winter project initiated by M Power Radio. On the photo the management of IFS can be seen with the representatives of M Power Radio.

SPORTS BAGS

2010-06-02T02:28:00.000-07:00

A large donation of Sports Bags was donated by Anglo Coal for use by the children of the Care Village who for some time have been requesting sports bag in which to pack their clothes when they go on holidays, school camps or sport tours.

SCHOOL UNIFORMS 2010

2010-01-20T22:15:00.000-08:00

At the beginning of the new school year, The Ridge Casino and Entertainment Resort sponsored a new school uniform for each of the children. I was a wonderful experience to see the expression of pride and excitement on each child's face when they left for school on the first day, especially those attending high school for the first time.

Christmas Lunch @ St Josephs

2010-01-18T22:27:00.000-08:00

On Christmas Day, the children and house parents not on holiday were treated to a special Xmas lunch at St Josephs Home for the Frail. It was a privilege to see the elderly and the children enjoying their tasty Xmas lunch together. We extend our sincere appreciation to the Management and staff of St Josephs for their hospitality.

Standard Bank Visit

2009-12-14T04:44:00.000-08:00

During a visit to the Care Village by staff members of Standard Bank, a large quantity of foodstuffs and other groceries were donated as well as packets of sweets and other goodies for each child.

Awards

2009-11-05T23:39:00.001-08:00

A number of our children received awards and certificates for academical and sport achievements at their schools. These are some of those who received trophies for their outstanding achievements.

Matric Farewell

2009-11-05T23:26:00.000-08:00

Our Grade 12 pupil, Lee-Ann, recently celebrated her matric farewell. Her dress and accessories, hair etc were all sponsored while her portfolio of photos was sponsored by Jeanette Botha, the wife of a Board member. On the attached photos, sometaken with the manager of the Care Village, can be seen how radiant Lee-Ann looked on the day.

The Ridge Birthday Bash

2009-09-21T03:47:00.000-07:00

On Saturday 12 September 2009 the annual Ridge birthday bash was held at the Care Village. A large number of staff from The Ridge were present and the children were entertained with jumping castles, slip & slides and refreshments of all kinds. The boys in turn caught the attention with a number of soccer matches between the various houses, while the younger boys each received a new soccer kit of which they are very proud.

The Ridge Sponsorships

2009-09-21T03:05:00.000-07:00

The following sponsorships were also received from The Ridge during September. A large donation of waterproof bedsheets, 2 washing machines, school shoes and casual shoes. Each of the children once again received their monthly hygiene pack of toiletries and those who had birthdays received their gift vouchers to purchase something special.

Status Report - May 2009

2009-06-16T20:43:00.000-07:00

Once again there were a number of activities during the month of May 2009, the most noteworthy being the follow:

A visit to the Care Village by a group of Rotary exchange students from Missouri in the U.S.A. After a brief background of the history and function of the Care Village, these young people were taken on a tour of the facilities after which they expressed their appreciation for the work done amongst the children. It is hoped that more visits of this nature will provide greater exposure overseas for the Care Village.

The Ridge Entertainment Resort was once again very active in the lives of the children during the month:

• Each child received their own hygiene pack consisting of toiletries and other personal items.
• All of those who celebrated their birthday during May received a gift voucher with which to purchase something personal for themselves.
• Regular discussions were held with the children involved in the scholarship programme and IT support was given to them.
• A Charity Car Wash was arranged to generate funds for our senior girl, Lee-Ann towards her dress for her Grade 12 farewell function. Due to the initiative of the Staff of The Ridge, and participation by other children from the Care Village, the day was a great success.
• The Ridge also donated a number of lounge suites and curtains for some of the houses to replace those that had become unservicable due to normal wear and tear.

The ladies of the Human Resources Division of Anglo Coal Witbank arranged a trip by our senior girls to their facilities to celebrate “ Take a child girl to work day”. At their offices the girls were taken on a tour of the offices, were introduced to the staff and after a presentation on careers and bursaries available at Anglo Coal, were treated to wonderful refreshments. Afterward each girl received a presentation pack of stationery.

Apart from the normal management meetings, a number of new forums were attended where issues of mutual interest with other facilities housing children in need of care were discussed. It is hoped that more of these informal meetings will be initiated in the future which can only benefit those involved in caring for children.

Once again we thank the congregation of Shielding Heights Ministry, Holy Trinity, Corpus Christi, St Mary of Fatima Catholic Church and Revival Centre who continue to provide spiritual and material support to the children and care givers of the Care Village.

We remain indebted to the doctors and staff of the Bambanani Medical Centre for the medical services which they continue to provide for our children at their own expense.

Also to Turftek who continue to maintain the grounds of the Care Village with their own staff and equipment. Without their commitment it would not be possible to maintain and keep the Care Village in the neat condition it is.

Though it is not possible to make mention of all, there are many other organizations and individuals whose interest in the well-being of our children is invaluable. One such of these is Ahmed who visited the Care Village during a business trip and made a very generous donation towards the work of the children’s home.

I also need to place emphasis on the role of other mining groups, such as BHP Billiton, Anglo Coal and Woestalleen Colliery who have supported the Care Village since its inception both financially and through means of other initiatives and continue to do so.

2009-02-18T02:34:00.000-08:00

LIFE HEALTH CARE

The playground has been extended by the purchase of an additional jungle gym which was sponsored by the Occupational Health Division of Life Health Care. The increase in the number of younger children has brought about a need for more of this type of recreational equipment. Mention must also be made of Benches who are the suppliers of this equipment who at their own expense upgraded the existing playground equipment.

MIDDELBURG COUNTRY CLUB

A large amount of bed linen, towels, pillows and curtains was donated to the Care Village by the Management of the Middelburg Country Club. This donation was made possible by the replacement of linen in the lodge of the golf club and could not have come at a more opportune time with the admission of additional children in need of care. On the photo two of the housekeeping staff members of the Care Village can be seen with part of the donation.

THE RIDGE

The Ridge Entertainment Resort once again visited the Care Village and presented each of the children with their own hygiene packet containing toiletries, vitamins and other items. The children who had birthdays during February also each received a gift from The Ridge. Each of the children and care givers (house parent) present also received chocolate and a piece of cake to celebrate the occasion. The Management of The Ridge used this opportunity to visit the newly renovated house which they had helped to furnish and to spend time with the children during lunch time.

ROTARY CANADA

On the attached photo Chris Das representing a number of Canadian Rotary Clubs can be seen handing over a cheque to the manager of the Care Village, Colin Hasses as mentioned in a previous article to sponsor a training course for a large number of care givers.

2009-01-26T22:15:00.000-08:00

THE RIDGE

At the start of the school term, The Ridge also sponsored each of the children with hygiene packs for the month. They also sponsored school stationary and a large quantity of school uniforms.

MURIAL

Murial, a 16 year old pupil who achieved a number of academical achievements at the end of 2008 school year, was enrolled at Steelcrest High School in Middelburg at the start of the 2009 academical year. Murial who is presently in Grade 10 and intends following a career in chemical engineering after she completes her school career. Murial's uniform, registration and school fees have been sponsored by The Ridge Entertainment Resort

December Status Report by the Manager

2009-01-13T21:11:00.000-08:00

The commencement of the December school holidays and the placement of the majority of the children with families or holiday foster parents brought about a period of rest and respite from all the normal day to day activities of the Care Village.

It provided rest for the staff after a busy year while providing time for planning in preparation for the challenges and opportunities of 2009.

However, there were still activities during December which were very noteworthy.

An Aids Awareness Day was held at the Bambanani Medical Centre where our staff and children who attended were treated to lunch after the conclusion of the days programme.

The Ridge Entertainment Resort once again sponsored an ear operation for Sibusiso, a 13 year old boy who had lost his hearing while he was still very young. After the success of his first ear operation earlier in the year, the Ridge arranged for the other ear to be operated on at the start of the school holidays. Due to the initiative and sponsorship of the Management and Staff of The Ridge, Sibusiso now has normal hearing in both his ears and has the assurance that he will be able to live a full life in the future.

A week – long training course was held by the National Association of Child Care Workers for all the staff of the Care Village as well as care givers from a number of other organizations and institutions within the province. The cost of the course was sponsored by Rotary Clubs in Canada. Courses of this nature serve to empower all those who are involved in the important task of caring for children in need.

Once again I must express our great appreciation to Turftek for their continued commitment to maintaining the grounds of the Care Village, without which the Care Village would not be able to look as neat as it always does.

I wish to take this opportunity to wish all who in one way or another contribute to the well-being of the children of the Care Village, a wonderful and prosperous 2009.

Manager
C.E Hasses

November Status Report by the Manager

2008-12-18T19:42:00.000-08:00

The month of November has once again been a very busy and productive month for the Care Village.

The Care Village is still at full capacity with 85 children. The renovations to the additional house have been completed and the next step is to furnish the house with curtains, furniture etc before admitting additional children.

Towards the end of the school term, many of the children received awards, certificates and trophies for their academical achievements during the year. This attests of the hard work and diligence these children put into their studies.

During the month The Ridge Entertainment Resort hosted and sponsored a number of activities and initiatives for the children of the Care Village.

One was the presentation once again to each child of their own hygiene pack for the month containing toiletries etc. A donation of mealie meal and other much needed articles was also made at the same time.

All of the children and Care Givers (house parents) were treated to a Christmas Dinner at The Ridge which was a very special occasion. The staff of The Ridge gave individual attention to each and everyone of the children. They ensured that each child had their fill of the abundant food which was available, and when each child received a personnel gift, the expressions on their faces was a joy for all present, to behold.

A dance group from one of the local churches entertained the children with dances while at the same time bringing a spiritual message to the children, who were caught up in the spirit of the moment and took part by means of clapping and dancing.

A number of functions were held at some of the houses which were hosted by local churches in the community, while all the Care Givers (house parents) were invited to a local church where they were treated to a wonderful Christmas lunch and time of fellowship.

The house which was chosen as the neatest and cleanest house for the year was treated to supper at the Spur Restaurant which was sponsored by the Spur. This initiative will certainly serve as an incentive next year to the other houses.

The Management and staff of the Care Village wish to use this opportunity to express their appreciation to all organizations, companies and individuals who supported the Care Village during the year and to extend best wishes to all for the festive Season.

THE SPUR

2008-12-12T02:33:00.001-08:00

The house which was chosen as the cleanes and neatest for the year was treated to supper at the Spur Restaurant which was sponsored by the Spur. This evening not only served as a reward for the children hard work, but will also serve as an incentive to motivate the other houses to improve their standards of neatness during the next year.

CARE GIVERS COURSE

All the Care Givers form the Care Village and a number of Care Givers form other organizations recently attended a National training course for Child Care Workers which was sponsored by a number of Canadien Rotary Clubs. At a recent function hosted by the local Rotary Clubs of Middelburg and Witbank, Chris Das, a representative from the Canadian Rotary Clubs handed a cheque over to the Manager, Colin Hasses to cover the costs of the course.

XMAS MESSAGE

The Board, Management and staff of the Middelburg Care Village wish to convey their appreciation to all organizations, companies and individuals for their support during the past year and to wish all a blessed FESTIVE SEASON.

EAR OPERATION

2008-12-09T23:37:00.000-08:00

During the July school holidays The Ridge Entertainment Resort sponsored an operation to one of the ears of a 12 year old boy, Sibusiso who has been deaf virtually his whole life. Due to the success of the first operation, The Ridge once again sponsored an operation to his other ear at the start of December holidays. Though Sibusiso is still recuperating,we believe that it too will be successful. On the photo Sibusiso can be seen with his care giver, Me Nape.

XMAS DINNER

2008-12-09T23:23:00.000-08:00

During November 2008 the children and care givers (house parents) were treated to a special
Christmas dinner at The Ridge Entertainment Resort. It was a privilege for those present to see the manner in which the staff of The Ridge cared for each child and ensured that they had more than enough to eat of the delicious food available. The expressions on their faces when they received their gifts will long be remembered by all who were present.

October Status Report by the Manager

2008-11-06T03:26:00.000-08:00

Once again the month of October has been a busy month for the Care Village.

The Care Village is presently at full capacity with an additional 5 children being admitted during the month. We were fortunate also to be able to enrol the children at existing schools in the vicinity.

Work has commenced on the renovation of another of the vacant houses on the premises with a sponsorship from the Middelburg Rotary Club. On completion, and after the appointment of suitable care givers (house parents) we will be able to admit more children in need of care.

The management team of the Care Village has been strengthened by the appointment of a fulltime senior social worker, me Santa de Jager as from 1 October 2008. Thankfully me de Jager has been employed on a part time basis for more than a year at the Care Village and her experience will benefit the children immensely and contribute to their well-being.

During the month The Ridge Entertainment Resort hosted a number of activities at the Care Village. On 1 October during the school holidays the children were entertained to movies and eats in the hall, while on 3 October they celebrated The Ridge’s birthday with jumping castles and more refreshments at the Care Village. The children from Bethesda, a children’s home for mentally and physically challenged children were also invited. The day was a blessing for all those who were privileged to be present. On 13 October The Ridge again presented each child with a hygiene pack for the month, while a clinic sister from the Ridge visits the Care Village on Friday afternoons to care for any needs the children may have (another first).

The ABSA Bank Annual Golf Day to raise funds for the Care Village was held on 16 October. This event continues to grow and due to the ever increasing support, was once again a great success. This continuing commitment by ABSA is much appreciated.

Over the weekend of 24 and 25 October the Care Village again hosted the annual Rotary exchange student selection to select a group of young professionals to undertake an overseas goodwill tour hosted by Rotary.

Three of the Care Village children took part in the National Taekwando Championships on 25 October where each of them won 2 medals. For his gold medal, one of the youngest children, Sipho was awarded provincial colours. Much is expected from Sipho in the future.

On the same date Life Health Care hosted a fun day at the Care Village. The children were entertained with a number of activities, water sports and refreshments. The event was enjoyed by all who were present, both young and old.

Special mention must once again be made of the following companies / organizations: Corpus Christi, Holy Trinity and other church organizations for their spiritual and material support.

Bambanani Medical Centre for the medical treatment and medication which they provide at their own expense without which we would never be able to maintain a healthy life style for our children.

We also need to thank Mannequins Hair Salon for being willing at short notice to fetch our children and to cut their hair, both boys and girls.

Turftek once again must be thanked for their daily management of the grounds and use of their own equipment and staff. The neatness of the grounds speaks for itself of the commitment of Turftek.

Manager
C. E Hasses

Life Health Fun Day

2008-11-05T01:09:00.000-08:00

Life Health Care, a company specializing in Occupational Health, treated the children to a fun day during which they took part in water sports and were provided with a number of refreshments. The day ended with a watermelon feast to the delight of everyone who participated

Provincial Colours for Taekwando

2008-11-05T00:52:00.000-08:00

At the recent National Taekwando Championships, our 3 children who participated, each won 2 medals. The youngest, Sipho was also awardedprovincial colours for his gold medal and first place. Many more such achievements are expected from Sipho.

ABSA Golfday in aid of Middelburg Care Village

2008-11-03T04:49:00.000-08:00

On 16 October 2008 ABSA held a well supported golfday at the Middelburg Country Club to raise funds for the Middelburg Care Village. A cheque in the amount of R25 000,00 was handed over to Andre Brandmuller, the Chairman of the Board of the Care Village. A BIG thank you to ABSA for their continued and generous support!!!!!!

Sibusiso's Ear Operation

2008-06-25T01:27:00.001-07:00

SIBUSISO'S EAR OPERATION:

Sibusiso Zulu, 12 years of age, was born with an ear defect which led to the loss of hearing in both his ears. The Ridge Entertainment Resort arranged with an ear specialist, Dr Grant Kassner, an anaesthetist, Dr Reyneke and the Midmed Hospital for a reconstruction operation to restore the hearing in one of his ears. The total cost of the operation has been sponsored by The Ridge.

McDonald's Treat

2008-06-25T01:14:00.000-07:00

McDONALD's TREAT:

On Friday 20June 2008 after the closure of the schools for the winter holiday's, McDonald's entertained the children in the Care Village Hall with Ronald McDonald the clown, a magician show and afterwards treated them to genuine McDonald's hamburgers and juice. For some of the it was probably their first taste of a genuine McDonald's burger!

16 June 2008 Youth Day

2008-06-25T00:32:00.000-07:00

YOUTH DAY:

On Youth Day 16 June 2008 the South African Police Service visited the Care Village and entertained the staff and children with a display by the dog unit. The sniffer dogs demonstrated their expertise in finding drugs hidden on a person, inside objects as well as in vehicles. The children expressed their satisfaction for the display and it is hoped that some of them might be encourage to choose a career in the SAPS.

HOLIDAY EXCURSION

2008-04-18T02:26:00.000-07:00

THE RIDGE (ENTERTAINMENT DAY)

The Ridge Entertainment Centre once again sponsored a visit to the Ridge during the school holidays. They entertained the children with a movie with cool drink and popcorn included and afterwards they were treated to lunch at the Wimpy followed by putt-putt and games at the Magic Company. The children enjoyed the day immensely.

LAMBSON'S HIRE (SPORTSBAGS)

On 11 April 2008 Lambson's Hire, an equipment rental company, visited the Care Village and presented each of the children with a sportsbag which can be used either for their school books or for other activities. On the photo the appreciation can be seen on the faces of the house parents and children.

ANGLO COAL (GOLF DAY)

The Human Resources Management personnel of Anglo Coal arranged a golf day for the benefit of the Care Village at which an amount of R 2 165.00 was raised. On 15 April 2008 the ladies from Anglo Coal visited the Care Village and can be seen handing the donation over to the Care Village.

The Ridge 7 February 2008

2008-03-11T00:11:00.001-07:00

The children of the Care Village were once again treated to a visit from the General Manager and staff members of The Ridge Entertainment Centre. The children were each presented with their own parcel of toiletries and other goodies. Their appreciation was clear from their spontaneous applause and expressions on their faces. The visit was made more special by a donation of furniture, cutlery, bedding and electrical appliances by The Ridge at the same occasion.

Visit by Canadians

2008-03-05T00:55:00.000-08:00

On Friday 29 February 2008 a group of Canadian visitors was hosted at the Care Village. Among the group were a number of Rotarians who had recently contributed to a matching grant which had enabled the purchase of indoor and outdoor sports equipment, beds and mattresses, the sinking of boreholes and a number of other projects. The Rotarian Clubs represented were Stathroy, Grand Bend, London and Forest. After they had been welcomed, the guests were taken on a tour of the facilities. The visit ended with a meeting between the visitors and the local Rotary Clubs of Middelburg and Witbank. During the meeting banners were exchanged and donations towards the work of the local Rotary Clubs and the Care Village were made. On the photos the visitors can be seen at the newly established vegetable garden as well as during the presentation.

DONATION OF NEW SCHOOL BUS

2008-01-17T23:07:00.000-08:00

On 8 January 2008 the Management of Anglo Coal presented the Care Village with a 65 seater school bus. This donation could not have come at a better time, as the Care Village will soon be accommodating more children, who will need to be transported to school. At the same time, new school bags and stationary packs were given to all the children. On the photos, the Manager of Human Resources, Anglo Coal, Mr Ray Westermeyer can be seen handing over the keys of the bus to Mr John Brislin, member of the Board of Directors with the children in attendance.

STATUS REPORT DECEMBER 2007

2007-12-03T22:48:00.000-08:00

Short Summary of Activities

Four management meetings and five Executive Board meetings were held during November 2007.

During the course of the month the following sponsorships and activities took place:

· The Middelburg Dutch Reformed Church agreed to sponsor the needs of the children of house 7 and the house parent and to see to their spiritual needs.
· The Ridge Entertainment Centre presented each child with their own presentation pack of toiletries, which is a special treat for the children at the MCV.
· On 5 November 2007 The Spur treated all our boys to supper at their restaurant after the girls had had their turn the previous week.
· On 7 November 2007 Vukani Gaming held a very successful PRO event at the MCV where they officially handed over their recent donations of the palisade fencing, kitchen equipment and laundry equipment.

On the evening of 15 November 2007 the children treated the staff and selected guests to a wonderful Christmas pageant. Many a tear was shed by those who attended.

On 23 November 2007 the children were taken to the Virgin Active Gymnasium where they were treated to eats and various other interesting activities and each received a gift.

The same evening they were invited to attend a film evening at one of the local churches.

On 24 November 2007 a tin collection at one of the largest shopping centres was organized by one of the local estate agencies, Chas Everett, in conjunction with Rotary to collect funds for the Middelburg Care Village. Initiatives like this are greatly appreciated.

The biggest challenge for the management of the Middelburg Care Village at present is to place as many of the children as possible with their families or foster homes during the December school holidays.

Capital needs

14 Seater bus
Industrial washing machines
Large generator
Developing and extending boreholes
Renovating vacant houses
Furnishing vacant houses
Clinic and salary for sister
Entertainment Centre
Renovating security guard office at gate
Intercoms office, houses and gate
Small compressor
Medical Fund for staff and children

OPERATING REQUIREMENTS

1. Salaries (domestic workers, social workers etc.)
2. Sewing machines, irons, ironing boards
3. Vacuum cleaners
4. Microwave ovens, toasters,
5. Cutlery, crockery, pots, pans etc for homes
6. Kitchen equipment and utensils
7. Toothpaste-cup holders
8. Shower racks
9. Waste paper baskets
10. Lounge Furniture
11. Carpets for lounge and bathroom/shower floors
12. Pictures/paintings to hang on the walls as well as for the bathrooms
13. Paint: “wall and all” type for interior and exterior use
14. Photostat paper & stationery
15. Toiletries: Shampoo; deodorants/roll-on (boys & girls); soap; toothpaste; aqueous cream; Vaseline
16. Hair driers for girls.
17. School Clothes
a. White shirts: Size 13 years to 16 years
b. Grey shirts: Size 13 years to 16 years
c. Grey shorts: Size 13 years to 16 years
d. Black school shoes: Sizes 1-8
18. Black belts for trousers, size 75cm
19. Tackies: Sizes 1-8
20. Cleaning materials such as Handy-Andy, Sunlight, washing powder etc.
21. Sport bags

The Ridge Sponsership

2007-11-15T23:35:00.001-08:00

During October 2007 The Ridge Casino and Entertainment Centre presented each of the children with a new school bag which is very welcome at this time of the school calender. On the photo you can see Monica handing over the school bag to the Manager of The Care Village.

During November 2007 The General Manager of The Ridge, Maureen Klivits and her personnel assistant, Susan Esterhuizen once again surprised all the children by presenting each of them with a wonderful selection of toiletries. On behalf of the management and all the children of the Care Village, a very big thank you to the Ridge for the difference you make.

STATUS REPORT AS AT 30 OCTOBER 2007

2007-11-07T00:33:00.000-08:00

Five Management meetings and four Executive Board meetings were held during October 2007.

From 1 to 8 October 2007 the yearly singing Eisteddfod was held at the Care Village.

During the month a courtesy call was made to a number of schools in Mhluzi, where 3 of our children were enrolled at a new secondary school for the first time.

On Saturday 6 October 2007 a very successful talent show was held at the Care Village. All the organization was done by the children themselves while the talent they displayed was a delight for all who attended.

On Saturday 13 October 2007 Life Health Care sponsored a day of recreation at the Pienaarsdam Holiday resort for the older children which included horse riding and game drives.

At the same time the younger children were treated to a jumping castle and eats at the Care Village.

A golf tournament was hosted by ABSA Bank on 18 October 2007 at the Middelburg Country Club on behalf of the Care Village. The proceeds of the tournament including a raffle IN THE AMOUNT OF R 47 000,00 were donated to the Care Village.
Thank you very much ABSA.

The Annual Rotary GSE selections were held at the Care Village from 26 – 28 October 2007. Five candidates were selected to travel to Canada for six weeks as part of the exchange programme.

On Saturday 27 October 2007 the children were sponsored by Ubungani Wilderness Experience to a visit to the historical old mission station at Botshabelo.

A special treat for the children was arranged when all of the girls with their house parents had supper at the Spur Steak Restaurant on Monday 29 October 2007 which was sponsored by Spur. The boys will be treated to supper during November 2007.

Sponsorship Vukani

2007-10-17T03:02:00.000-07:00

The Care Village has recently been blessed with two big sponserships by Vukani Gaming Corporation. The old fencing around the Care Village has been replaced by a steel palisade fence which not only ensures greater security on the premises, but has also improved the appearance of the Care Village. Through the donation of a large amout of electrical appliances, the kitchen is being upgraded and our dream of establishing our own laundry will soon be a reality. THANK YOU VUKANI!

Rotary Clubs assist with a large matching grant

2007-10-16T22:38:00.001-07:00

The Middelburg Rotary Club and the Strathroy Rotary club in Canada initiated a process for a matching grant in aid of the Middelburg Care Village through the Rotary Foundation during December 2007 after a meeting between Rotarian Chris Das (from Strathroy) and PP Andre Brandmuller(from Middelburg).

As a result of the incredible efforts of Dianne Twynstra and Chris Dasin Canada the grant grew to include contributions from Middelburg, Strathroy, and the clubs of Forest and Grand Bend in Canada.

The amount of R211 000,00 was paid into the project account in the beginning of October 2007 as a result of the approval of the grant.

The Middelburg Care Village will benefit with workshop tools, playground equipment, furnishings, Linen, curtains, duvets, crockery and cutlery, beds and mattresses. In addition the boreholes on the property will be redrilled and assist in the supply of fresh water for, amongst others, the new vegetable and fruit garden.

The Rotary Foundation and its matching grant programme has again assisted in the needs of an organisation which is trying to assist those who need it most.

A big THANK YOU to all involved!!!!!

Super Star Talent Show

2007-10-10T22:57:00.000-07:00

On Saterday 6 October 2007 a very successful talent show was held at the Care Village. The planning and organization of the talent show was done by the children themselfes with the help of the house parents and was attended by members of the Management Board and the community. It was a huge success and all who attended were amazed at the talent displayed by the childre.

TREE PLANTING & RIDGE CASINO 10TH BIRTHDAY

2007-09-18T02:36:00.000-07:00

On 11 September 2007 a tree planting ceremony was held at the Care Village.The Middelburg High School Agricultural Faculty arranged for a donation of fruit trees ans assisted the Children of the Care Village in the planting of the trees.

On Saturday 15 September 2007 a successful birthday party was held at the Care Village by The Ridge Entertainment Centre for all the children. Jumping castles were arranged as well as lots of eats, while a soccer match between the soccer team of the Care Village and the Enthembeni Children's Home provided much excitement.

Care Village AGM

2007-08-31T03:28:00.000-07:00

The Annual General Meeting was held on Wednesday 29 August 2007 at the Care Village with representatives from both the Management Board, the Mpumalanga Department of Health an Social Development and the local community. The financial statements were presented by the auditors and the Chairperson, Mr A Brandmuller gave an overview of the progress and activities since the last report. Special mention was made of organisations and individuals who had contributed to the well-being of the children in one way or another.

JULY STATUS REPORT AND WISH LIST

2007-08-20T02:59:00.000-07:00

Short summary of activities.

4 July 2007 a rededication service was held for the Village. The service was led by one of the Care Givers, Pastor Joseph Mahlangu and was attended by a number of people from the local community.

The new Care Givers (house parents), Mr and Me Steenkamp took occupation of their house on 1 July 2007. As they are both trained counsellors, their presence has already started to bear fruit. As Mr Steenkamp has also been appointed as factotum, he has started with repairs to the houses which are presently occupied. However, funds are urgently needed to renovate the 3 houses that are presently vacant, to provide additional accommodation. We are in the process of obtaining quotations.

The manager and 5 car givers (house parents) of the Village attended a development course for care givers at Volksrust from 9 – 12 July 2007, facilitated by the nationally association of Child Care Workers. Follow up courses are being planned. The cost of the first course was R5280 while these costs still have to be met.

On 14 July 2007 Cathy Pacific Airlines and Ubungani Wilderness Experience, entertained all the children of the Village at Botshabelo, a nature resort on the outskirts of Middelburg. Activities and meals were arranged for the children, while a number of overseas journalists were also present.

On 23 and 27 July 2007 presentations were given to the children by the Life Health Care Groups on relevant health topics.

Me A Grobler, a dietician and member of the Board of Directors of the Care Village visited the Village on 24 July 2007 to discuss new menus and dietary needs for the children with the kitchen and support staff. Training sessions for kitchen staff are being planned while the vacant post of Head of House Keeping has been advertised in the local press.

Weekly meetings are held with the care givers (house parents) and other support staff to plan and co-ordinate the day-to-day running of the Care Village to promote participative management and to discuss policies and procedures.

WISH LIST

Capital needs

14 Seater bus
Industrial washing machines

Large generator
Developing and extending boreholes
Renovating vacant houses
Furnishing vacant houses
Clinic and salary for sister
Entertainment Centre
Renovating security guard office at gate
Intercoms office, houses and gate
Small compressor
Medical Fund for staff and children
Salaries (domestic workers, social workers etc.)
Sewing machines, irons, ironing boards
Vacuum cleaners
Microwave ovens, toasters, snack wiches
Cutlery, crockery, pots, pans etc for homes
Kitchen equipment and utensils
Toothpaste-cup holders
Shower racks
Waste paper baskets
Lounge Furniture
Carpets for lounge and bathroom/shower floors
Pictures/paintings to hang on the walls as well as for the bathrooms
Paint: “wall and all” type for interior and exterior use
Photostat paper & stationery
Toiletries: Shampoo; deodorants/roll-on (boys & girls); soap; toothpaste; aqueous cream; Vaseline
Hair driers for girls.
School Clothes
a. White shirts: Size 13 years to 16 years
b. Grey shirts: Size 13 years to 16 years
c. Grey shorts: Size 13 years to 16 years
d. Black school shoes: Sizes 1-8
Black belts for trousers, size 75cm
Tackies: Sizes 1-8
Industrial cooker

2007-08-19T23:59:00.000-07:00

9 August 2007 Farm day

2007-08-17T01:23:00.000-07:00

We decided to give back to the children who achieved their goals in some areas, like for example house duties, their respect for elder people and their friends, and who always have a smile on their face.

We took these children to a farm for a day and what fun they had. They drove on tractors, rode horses and even tried to catch a rabbit, (but the rabbits were very smart). They got the opportunity to feed some calves.

They told me that they would like to come back again, and we will. Busi,Cindy, Busi, Jacques, Elias, Maluleki, JP and Piet, it was great to have you on the farm and keep on being the wonderful kids you are.

The Ridge Casino

2007-08-07T05:01:00.000-07:00

During the school holiday the 29 children who were staying in the Care Village were treated to Shrek at The Ridge Nu-Metro. For some of the children it was their firts time at the movies. On 16 July The Ridge went to welcome the children back after the holiday. The Ridge handed over some sport equipment to the children. The Ridge would like to support the children in developing sporting skills. The Ridge also launched an art competition with the Care Village and handed out Art & Craft Kits. By exposing the children to different and new art and craft skills they could discover hidden talents.

On the photo The Ridge Staff can be seen sorting out

Rotary helps again!!!!!!

2007-08-02T23:05:00.000-07:00

The Middelburg Care Village was the beneficiary of the goodwill of a German Rotary Club. Renate Erichson a Rotary Exchange Student from Middelburg who spent a year in Germany.

She told her host club about the Middelburg Care Village.They were so impressed that they immediately organised a project to raise funds. The Care Village received more than R51 000 from this project.

Thank you to everybody involved and Renate for her efforts.

On the photo Renate is handing over the checque to the Chairman of The Board, Mr Andre Brandmuller. Also present were Pres Andreas Mastoroudis of the Middelburg Cycad Rotary Club, and Suzette Bekker a volunteer at the Middelburg Care Village.