Activities Report for 2020

Our Response to the COVID 19 Pandemic

Help for the Needy

Though corporate giving has gone down in South Africa and despite the fact that many NPOs are struggling, God is still on the throne and prayer changes things. Our thoughtful and compassionate supporters and our dedicated volunteers continued to stand by Family Care Ministries this year. Despite the hardships many faced in their own lives, the donations given allowed us to buy the hundreds and hundreds of kilogrammes of fruit, vegetables, rice, potatoes, maize, samp, soya mince and other protein to enable us to serve 65,399 meals and to buy the food items for the 483 food parcels this year.

In addition to the feeding schemes we  have been running in Orange Farm and Evaton West for many years, Family Care Ministries volunteers opened a feeding scheme to approximately 250 children and elderly in Eldorado Park. Schools were closed for a good part of the year and once they reopened, children only attended classes on some of the weekdays. This meant that many missed out not only having their educational needs met but also on the meals that they are usually provided with at schools. We tried to fill the gap where we could and started feeding children three times a week in Eldorado Park and stepped up our  feeding in Drieziek Ext 9, in Orange Farm from feeding 300-450 meals once a week to feeding three times a week. For a good part of the year Family Care Ministries was able to also expand this food programme to the informal settlements of Tjovitjo nearby. This brought our food distribution close to 9,000 meals during these months.

Our volunteers also visit the elderly in their homes to help clean, cook meals or collect medication at the clinic on their behalf when needed.

Our monthly feeding programme to 120 elderly in the Brixton area was disrupted during the months of lockdown. As soon as we were able to raise the needed money we continued. We managed to bring a wholesome warm meal three times in this year and delivered food parcels on two occasions. Whenever possible we passed out one or two pieces of fruit, tea and sugar, or other food items along with the meal. While we were conscious and careful to avoid close contact, we still handed out a printed leaflet along with a smile and encouraging words. This did a lot to alleviate some of the fears and worries many are dealing with during this pandemic.

We were able to step up our biweekly distribution of 300 loaves of bread to a weekly one of the same amount.  Milk and eggs were distributed on a biweekly or monthly basis. 40 households received regular food assistance in Orange Farm and Evaton West alone.

Family Care Ministries was able to help school children who needed stationary. Whenever available we handed out school or other shoes, clothing and any household items we were given.

Most of the weekly food donations we received from a supermarket were delivered to the Boys Brigade in Noordgesig, Soweto. The couple serving the children and families in this community continue to help children to the best of their ability. We feel honoured to work with people who look past their own needs to care for others.

Other Food Distribution

In addition to all the hundreds and hundreds of kilogrammes of maize, rice, potatoes, vegetables and protein that goes into preparing 65,399 meals, Family Care Ministries volunteers distributed this year:

• 394 crates of assorted foods, and other canned and dry goods
• 12,800 loaves of bread
• 2.3 tonnes of  maize
• 130 jars of peanut butter
• 1,000 l of milk
• 1,410 dozen eggs
• 3,300 kg of liquid eggs (egg pulp)
• 20 kg E-Pap
• 40 jars of soup ingredients

Donations in Kind

• 47 bags of clothes, 4 of which contained jerseys and lovingly knitted scarves and beanies
• 26 bags of shoes
• 20 large boxes of toys and children’s books
• a bakkie load of adult books
• cleaning supplies
• a bakkie load of household items
• a double and a single sink and tiles to upgrade our kitchen in Orange Farm
• a small fridge, printer, bread maker, and irons
• 150 New Testaments
• 50 Gift bags
• 1200 pencils
• 8 boxes of colour pencil sets
• rulers, erasers and sharpeners
• 100 sets of crayons
• 120 pens
• 400 highlighters
• 200 sets felt tip markers

Outreach

The donations of 12 boxes of paper were used to print 46,000 gospel tracts, 1,810 Bible verse booklets, and over 13,000 pages of Bible study course material in three languages. Aside from what was printed in house, we also distributed other Christian magazines and devotional and motivational booklets.

While sharing the Gospel one-on-one is most effective, our volunteers also used social media platforms such as Facebook and WhatsApp to reach others. Messages went out via SMS and by email to spread God’s Word and to counsel and encourage others to find or cling to their faith in Jesus. These avenues of spreading the Gospel had to be utilized in a greater way throughout this year marked by lockdowns and restrictions. Through these avenues the Lord has helped us to change the world one heart at a time. Here are some of the responses we received:

When I see what you and the Lord are doing for the hungry and needy, my heart is so full of joy. I get tears in my eyes. It’s so, so wonderful. Praise the Lord and God bless you. – Beverly

Thanks for all the messages, testimonies and your prayers for me. Pastor, I respect you. Sending somebody a verse or just saying “I am praying for you” or even just sharing a testimony about what God is doing, does a great deal in someone’s life. I’m being encouraged, motivated and influenced to serve the Lord with all my heart. – Pastor Gently

Today God has given me a dad who prays for me and cares for our community. Thank you. I grew up without parents so you are very special to me. I will forever respect you. May God bless you and your family. – Florence

I feel like jumping. Thank you God for connecting my life with Family Care Ministries! I glorify your name, Jesus. – Simphiwe

I enjoy your words of wisdom and file them and spread them where needed!! Many thanks!!! – Suenette

There are many more but we just wanted to put a few here to show that the Lord’s love is powerful. It lifts, it encourages, and it transforms and changes people.

Training

Early Childhood Development Training and Workshops

As an affiliate of EDU-BUILD INSTITUTE, Family Care Ministries has become a training provider offering SETA-accredited training to caregivers at ECD centres in Orange Farm offering the Early Childhood Development NQF Level 4 Certificate and the Level 5 Diploma in ECD courses. By December 2020 we had helped 6 ladies get their qualifications starting out as ECD practitioners. Unfortunately more than half of our students were unable to continue with their studies due to the hardships and financial strains many faced due to the pandemic.

We discontinued all other ECD training workshops for the time being due to lockdown restrictions. We did distribute two bakkie loads of used toys, books, and office and stationary supplies to a number of preschools in Orange Farm though.

Prison Ministry

Our ministry to inmates at Kutama Sinthumule Correctional Centre in Makhado, Limpopo, was disrupted on several occasions due to Corona Virus outbreaks or restrictions at Kutama. Despite this we managed to facilitate our Bible study courses at half capacity. We had therefore only 80 graduates by December 2020. Two inmates graduated from our advanced course while 8 others carried on with their studies throughout this year.

We can clearly see that lives are changing through the lessons and teaching. Here are some responses that we got from inmates:

Sydney: Proverbs 3:5-6 has taught me that in everything I do I should consult with God before so that it may prosper. I must not rely on myself because I might fail. But God doesn’t fail. He also said blessed are those who put their trust in the Lord. They will never be ashamed. This course has changed my life completely because now I depend in the Lord. Every situation that I come across in my life I hand it over to God because He is the one who is able to solve every problems. It has also taught me that if I put the Word of God first place in my heart, then the very same Word of God will produce an abundant harvest in my life.

Maphoto: The studying of this course has helped me a lot, especially in challenging me to give all of me to the Lord our God and having faith in Him. I have learned that God is not the source of our problems. The things we read in the Word of God, the Lord expect us to change the way we think. And as our thinking changes, so does our life.

Mpogo: Studying this course has helped me make my life to change for real. I came to prison without education and knowing nothing about correctional programmes. Starting to attend and learn about them (programmes and schooling), my life today is not the same as at the first appearance in prison. Now I understand that the Lord expects us to change our life about the things we read in the Word of God and accept and follow Jesus Christ as our spiritual leader for our entire life.

Aubrey: This course is fruitful to me because it helped me to memorize and mediate on the Word of God whenever I face challenges in my life. It also helped me to depend on God and put Him first all the time so that the seed inside me would produce the good fruit.

Malawi Work

Family Care Ministries has assisted the outreach work in Malawi for the past 11 years. Our volunteer workers are presently actively involved in training 600 pastors and other individuals who have a desire to teach, train, counsel and encourage others in six different locations. As part of our efforts we sent gospel pamphlets, Bible Study Course Manuals and Bible verse booklets to spread God’s Word and message. Family Care Ministries continues to support farming projects and youth outreach in the area.

Activities Report for 2019

Help for the Needy

Family Care Ministries aims to make a difference in the lives of needy families, child-headed households and the elderly. We attempt to help those who are able to to find ways to support themselves.

100 households received regular food assistance in Orange Farm and Evaton West alone. Shoes, clothing and household items were also distributed whenever available. Aside from the biweekly donations of bread and eggs we pass out, a total of 632 food parcels were distributed throughout this year. Some of our Christian businessmen friends continued to join our volunteers ministering to disadvantaged families & orphan households whenever their time permitted. The counsel, prayer and encouragement offered is as helpful as the food received.

Our volunteers also visit the elderly in their homes to help clean, cook meals or collect medication at the clinic on their behalf if need be. Six disabled people received food, clothing and help with transport to get them to appointments for treatment or to check-ups.

Since August 2019, 150-200 children, mostly from a nearby informal settlement, are served a warm meal and receive basic medical care once a week. A number of children are helped with their homework and meet for afternoon studies once or twice a week.

One of our volunteers started a children’s choir to give children something enjoyable and meaningful to do in their free time while another simply set some time aside to be available to talk, play and interact with the children. Family Care Ministries was able to help some school children who needed stationary, school uniforms, school shoes and books or help with their fees.

In addition to this, we continued to bring a wholesome warm meal to 120 elderly in Brixton every month of the past year. Along with the meal we hand out one or two pieces of fruit and home baked cupcakes. The encouraging words and time spent praying with and for the elderly make the visit the highlight of the month for many of them.

Most of the weekly food donations we receive from a supermarket are delivered to Ouma Helen, who is 88 years old now. She continues visiting and ministering to needy families in Industria and Fleurhof helping in whichever way she can. We feel honoured to work with such a sacrificial and selfless woman.

The following is a list of food items distributed by Family Care Ministries volunteers in 2019:

• 632 food parcels
• 377 crates of assorted foods, canned and other dry goods
• 227 kg potatoes, 150 kg vegetables, 36 large heads of cabbage
• 40 crates of fruit
• 70 kg frozen vegetables
• 2,270 kg of a rice
• 1,400 kg of meat
• 15,600 loaves of bread
• 400 kg maize
• 44 kg of peanut butter
• 45 cases of sugar sachets
• 121 kg coffee
• 900 l of milk
• 720 dozen eggs
• 12,500 kg of liquid eggs (egg pulp)

Other Donations

Other donated goods included 3 crates cleaning supplies, 115 bags of clothes, 4 crates of text books, a monitor & keyboard, an oil heater, 4 bags household items, 1800 plates & 300 cups Styrofoam, a bakkie load of saucers & cups, teacher and school desks & chairs, 4 boxes of toys, 10 large boxes of ring folders & assorted office and school supplies.

No Kids without School Shoes

In 2017 Family Care Ministries started the campaign “No kids without school shoes”. Throughout 2019 we were able to provide needy families and preschools with 1,420 pairs of shoes. We cannot specify how many of those were school schools but are grateful for the help we received from Sole to Sole who assisted us with shoes.

Events & Christmas Programmes

On Heritage Day, the 24^th of September, 90 food parcels were distributed to the elderly in Evaton West.  The singing and speeches and delicious meal was enjoyed by all.

Family Care Ministries assisted Ouma Helen again to organise a party for the children, families and elderly at one of the housing blocks in Fleurhof she regularly visits. The jumping castle, ice cream, snacks and stationary gifts were as great a hit as always with the children. Everyone enjoyed a delicious meal together after some song and dance.

Outreach

The donations of 21 boxes of paper were used to print 31,000 gospel tracts, 4,450 Bible Verse booklets, and over 13,000 pages of Bible study course class sheets in two languages. Aside from what was printed by Family Care Ministries, we also distributed 600 Christian magazines and 68 devotional booklets.

While sharing the Gospel one-on-one is most effective, volunteers also used social media such as Facebook and WhatsApp, SMSs and email messages to spread God’s Word and to counsel and encourage others to find faith in Jesus.

Early Childhood Development Training and Workshops

Our main focus  in 2019 was on starting up the EDU-BUILD INSTITUTE’S accredited Early Childhood Development NQF Level 4 certification course. Though we are not allowed to offer the course for free or for a discounted price, we were able to raise some of the start-up cost and running expenses.

Aside from this training programme, Family Care Ministries held 7 other workshops. Two of these were on planning lessons and learning activities for preschool children and fitting these into a daily programme. A total of 70 principals in Orange Farm attended the two meetings/workshops held to discuss training needs and see what assistance centres may need to register and meet government requirements to become eligible for subsidies. Three workshops helped preschool teachers get some important input and training on the developmental needs of babies, toddlers and young children and on various types of activities to use in the classroom. One key purpose of the workshops is to raise the level of awareness among caregivers of the importance of the early years in a child’s life. So many of the struggles that children face in schools is due to the lack of the development of foundational skills that children should be learning about and practicing while in preschool.

Family Care Ministries also donated 2 bakkie loads of used toys, books, and office and stationary supplies to a number of preschools in Orange Farm. Here are some responses from the workshops:

Everything was powerful. I gained something important for my day care centre. Thank you.

The workshop was definitely fruitful. I really appreciated learning about a child’s needs for development and would really like to learn more. Well done, Talitha, you make learning fun.

I have learned a lot with this course work especially on how to stimulate the development of language and communication skills.

I have learned a lot but the three days are too short. You must add more days. We need at least two weeks.

I gained knowledge through the lessons I received during these days I attended. Very good.

Malawi Work

Family Care Ministries has assisted the outreach work in Malawi for the past 10 years. Our volunteer workers there are actively involved in training pastors and other individuals who have a desire to teach, train, counsel and encourage others. As part of our efforts we sent gospel pamphlets, Bible Study Course Manuals and Bible verse booklets to spread God’s Word and message. Family Care Ministries continues to support farming projects and youth outreach in the area.

Prison Ministry

Family Care Ministries continued the rehabilitation work among inmates at Kutama Sinthumule Correctional Centre in Makhado, Limpopo. Nearly 200 inmates participated in the course we again offered in the three prison sections of this maximum security facility. We provide the course materials which are used by three facilitators to teach the inmates. The facilitators, who are inmates themselves, are overseen by the Chaplain’s office and report to us sending the tests the students write after each chapter. 185 of the students had earned a certificate by the end of 2019. This year Family Care Ministries was again able to mail 68 Christian booklets on different themes to those 14 students who participate in our advanced course. We can clearly see that lives are changing through the lessons and teaching. Here are some responses that we got from inmates:

Piet: Since I believe in Jesus Christ in my life, I saw lots of things that have changed in my spirit, soul and mind. I feel good all the times, I don’t have anger anymore. I know how to pray and how to read the word of God. Reading the word of God affects me in my life. I have experiences according to the word of God. I know how to stay positive all the time. I sleep at night because of the word of God and I believe in Him.

Tebogo: Truly speaking now I really feel relief. It is like something was weighing me down on my shoulders but now I am always happy. God is wonderful and great. Thanks to Him. Before I was having no knowledge according to the word of God. I didn’t know how to read the Bible. But now I know and since I started I even know what God wants from us to be saved. Now I know that I must live plowing my way to heaven not looking at the worldly things because our treasure is in heaven.

David: I am truly grateful for the lessons that you are teaching me. By reading your pamphlets I have found salvation and a deep connection with the Holy Spirit. I now find it easier to meditate on the Word, pray and fast. My spiritual life has been altered. To God be the glory. Thank you!

Nkopodi: Since I became a believer I have experienced the great love that God has for us and how much He cares for us. I have come to understand His Word and that it is life. It is like a rain that never goes out and returns to Him without watering the ground. I am immersed in His Word and saved. Reading the Word of God has affected my life tremendously. I can now meditate and come into connection in the spiritual realm with God. I am filled with joy for I know that His Word says I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

Activities Report for 2018

Help for the Needy

Family Care Ministries volunteers regularly assess the needs of the various community members we have been assisting throughout the year. Our aim is to make a difference and help those who are able to find ways to support themselves.

• 100 households are receiving regular food assistance in Orange Farm and Evaton West alone.
• Volunteers go to clean the houses of sick people, cook meals for them and collect medication at the clinic on their behalf.
• 25 orphans have been provided with study materials and clothing items they needed for school. They also receive food parcels on a monthly basis.
• A wheel chair and walking sticks were given to 7 disabled people. They also received a Bible and food parcels and clothes regularly.
• Abused women and children received counselling and were helped to get to social workers for further assistance.
• Youths taking drugs were referred to a rehabilitation centre for counselling and medical attention.
• 18 children are helped with their homework and meet for afternoon studies twice a week.
• Blankets were distributed to the elderly and disabled.

In addition to this, we continued to bring a wholesome hot meal to 120 elderly in Brixton at the end of every month of the past year. Along with the meal we give out fruit and home baked cupcakes. The encouraging words and time spent praying for the elderly make the visit the highlight of the month for many of them.

Because so many children come for food as well, some of our volunteers have prepared hot dogs, and bought snacks and juice for them and pass them out.

Most of the weekly food donations we receive from a supermarket are delivered to Ouma Helen, who is 87 years old now. She continues visiting and ministering to needy families in Industria and Fleurhof helping in whichever way she can. She has started visiting the homeless bringing once a week a warm meal to about 30 of them.

On Heritage Day, the 24^th of September, 80 food parcels were distributed to the elderly in Orange Farm.  The local community gathered to sing and dance for them while they enjoyed a delicious meal.

The following is a list of food items distributed by Family Care Ministries volunteers in 2018:

• 327 food parcels
• 564 crates of fresh fruits, vegetables, other assorted foods, canned and other dry goods
• 144 kg frozen vegetables
• 112 kg of a rice
• 775 kg of meat
• 9620 loaves of bread
• 125 kg maize
• 17 kg of sugar
• 284 l of milk
• 15,300 eggs

The Band of Brothers, a group of Christian business friends who have joined Family Care Ministries to make a difference in the lives of families in Orange Farm, have continued to join our volunteers on a monthly basis in visiting and ministering to disadvantaged families & orphan households. The prayer and encouragement offered are as helpful as the food parcels. One single mother who was sleeping with her 5 teenage children on one double bed in a one room shack got a big surprise when an additional room was built for her family paid by one of the business men. It was furnished with a bed for each one them.

No Kids without School Shoes

In 2017 Family Care Ministries started the campaign “No kids without school shoes”. Our volunteers who visit families regularly had noted that some of the children didn’t have any school shoes while others had shoes that were too small or broken beyond repair. In 2018 we were able to provide 341 pairs of school schools to needy children in Orange Farm and Evaton West. We are grateful for the help we received from Sole to Sole and from a caring and concerned business man who provided 150 pairs and helped to distribute them among the children of the families we regularly assist.

Other Donations

Other donated goods included a gas heater and 157 blankets which were distributed during the cold winter months. In addition to the food, caring for the needs of families included the passing out a total of 111 bags of used and new clothes and more than 400 used and new adult and children’s shoes. Family Care Ministries volunteers also distributed 30 dozen sanitary napkins and 550 adult diapers to those who needed and could not afford to get them. A wheel chair and walking sticks were provided for 7 disabled persons.

A friend who was closing down her business gave us 3 bakkie loads of fabric and thread. The material was delivered in Orange Farm and Evaton West and promptly turned into bedspreads, pillow cases and clothes by the ladies who could sew. Nothing went to waste.

Family Care Ministries volunteers also distributed 850 stationary sets, toys and books to children in the area. Four fire extinguishers and four First Aid kits were given to preschools who lacked the finances to purchase this essential safety equipment.

Training

Early Childhood Development Workshops

Our ministry to principals and caregivers who work in the ECD environment continued to grow.  The message to lay a better foundation for the future learning for South Africa’s children in township areas reverberated with many and the sense of personal responsibility in this task is growing. It is becoming better understood that the struggles children face in schools is due to the lack of foundation children received in their early years.

Family Care Ministries held workshops in Ennerdale, Vlakfontein, Eldorado Park, Naturena and Orange Farm. 165 principals and caregivers were able to get some important input and training on the developmental needs of babies, toddlers and young children and on various types of activities to use in the classroom. We received some sponsorship and were able to donate teacher guide books, picture cards and other educational toys to some of preschools but a lot more has to be done to meet the needs.

The caregivers didn’t realize how easy it can be to make a puppet until they tried it. Using a plastic bottle and some fabric they came up with these amazing creations.

Here are some responses from the workshops.

Thank you for the opportunity to come to the workshop. It was truly inspiring, motivating, joyful, exciting and loving. God bless you. Keep up with the good work. Don’t give up. Let’s change the world. – Lesedi E.C.D. & Preschool

Thank you very much. It is important, motivating, exiting and I learned many things. Please come again.- Mkanyezi Day Care

The workshop makes me feel better and teaches me how to take care of the children at the centre. The pictures that I have seen show me how to take care of and love the children and what I have to do or say in front of them. I’m teaching! I have enjoyed everything that I’ve seen and learned today. – Buhle Smart Beginnings

For me the workshop was good, for us and for the children of Orange Farm. You opened my eyes and let me see that I am very important and I play a big role. I have to keep it up and help the others and come back again. I love what you are doing and I wish you can come to our crèche and guide us. We are with you on your side. We will make it big. – Sedibeng Sa Thutu Day Care

The workshop has been a real eye opener for me because it made me see things that I did not know about. It helped me know how children are like. I am really grateful for it. Thank you for this.- Nkululeko Pre & Nursery School

Our volunteer heading Family Care Ministries’ ECD training project was able to meet with 90 principals from the Orange Farm area to discuss plans for 2019.

Thanks to the help of Calulo Foundation we were able to upgrade a preschool in Orange Farm. The roof at Isibuko Sezwe Preschool was leaking into the classrooms every time it rained and some of the support beams had rotted needed replacement. We fixed the problem so the 30 children could be in a safer environment. The drab looking paint was peeling off the walls in places. A young team of volunteers worked for a couple of days to brighten up the classrooms. With Calulo Foundation’s help we supplied the fabric to sow 30 mattress covers that were needed and curtains for the classrooms.

Family Care Ministries donated some used toys and bought some educational toys, teaching aids and books for the children as well. The teacher guide we gave each teacher lists scores of simple-to-do activities that help create a stimulating environment for children. In addition, Family Care Ministries offered 6 training workshops for caregivers from several of the preschools in the area.

Prison Ministry

When a fire was set at Kutama Sinthumule Correctional Centre, the classroom facilities used for Bible studies were damaged. The repairs on the rooms took longer than expected. There were therefore no classes in session during the first half of 2018. Because of this the total number of Bible study enrolments for the year was quite low compared to previous years.

In addition to this we experienced long delays in getting mail to inmates via the postal service which made it difficult to keep the course running. With the help of the residing Chaplain and his office staff though, we did manage to keep classes going for the second half of the year.

Family Care Ministries invested in Christian booklets on different themes to distribute to inmates. We were able to mail 95 to those participating in our advanced course.

Here are some responses that we got from inmates:

I enjoyed the course very much. Since I started this course, I pray and read my Bible daily. This course helped me to understand the Word of God better and now. I love the Word of God. More than anything else in the world, I’m willing to change my life for the better.- Lucky

I enjoyed this course because this course is teaching me about love. It teaches me that without love you’re nothing and other things I need when I go out. It encourages me to stay away from stealing. I thank God for that. Thank you.- Frans

I have enjoyed the course very much and I have also learnt the deep things of God which are hidden that most of the preachers of today don’t teach in the church. They teach so much about motivation and the pleasures of this world. I would like to receive more books of this teaching.- Sifiso

I don’t know how I can say thank you for this course. I thought I was alone. I thought there is no one who loves me. But now I know that there is Someone who loves and cares about me. His name is Jesus. The book of Luke 6:38 says, “Give to others and God will give to you.” There is so much that I learnt in this course.- Siyabonga

I enjoyed the course greatly. It helped me weigh my faith and works as a Christian and helped me see see that I am still lacking in many ways, i.e. helping those who are in need spiritually and material wise. The stories used as examples in your pamphlet taught and motivated me greatly.- Sipho

Christmas Programs and Events

Family Care Ministries did not manage to raise the funds needed to host the yearly large Christmas parties for children in township areas. It was decided that the funds that we were able to raise would be invested in ways that would benefit our dedicated volunteers more directly. They sacrifice their time and put a lot of effort into the work without receiving any remuneration. As most of them do not have jobs, we assisted them in ways that would help them be more effective in their work. Two volunteers received cell phones that would enable them to document their activities and communicate with our chairman and coordinate projects more effectively. A single mother was given a sewing machine that would enable her to make better use of donated fabrics, fix second hand clothing items, and raise some needed support for her family.

Although we cancelled the Christmas parties in Orange Farm, Evaton West and Soweto, Family Care Ministries did assist Ouma Helen who organized again a party for the children at one of the housing blocks she regularly visits. We had brought a jumping castle for the event but found on arrival that there was no electricity in the part of Fleurhof. We had to go in search of a generator and got a much later start than expected. Despite the delays though the children had great fun and spent the time waiting by playing games and showing off their dance skills.

Outreach

Boxes and boxes of paper were used to print 20,200 gospel tracts, 2,440 Bible Verse booklets, over 6,000 pages of Bible study course class sheets, 64 Bible Study Course Teacher Manuals, and other pamphlets in three languages. Aside from what we printed, we also distributed 500 Christian magazines, 47 Bibles and 307 devotional booklets. A member of the Gideons International joined with their daughter to hand out over 100 New Testaments to the elderly and others of the Brixton community.

While sharing the Gospel one-on-one is most effective, volunteers also used social media such as Facebook and Whatsapp, SMSs and email messages to spread God’s Word and to counsel and encourage others to find faith in Jesus.

Malawi Work

Family Care Ministries has had a work in Malawi for the past 9 years now training disciples and leaders who have a desire to teach others to teach others. As part of our outreach we sent gospel pamphlets, Bible Study Course Manuals and Bible verse booklets to assist trainers and trainees to spread God’s Word and message. Family Care Ministries has supported a farming project and youth outreach by supplying 5 soccer and 5 netball balls.

Activities Report for 2017

Help for the Needy

The trend of growth has continued throughout 2017. Our focus was not on starting new ventures this year but on increasing the impact in the communities Family Care Ministries volunteers have been working in. Our goal is to make projects as sustainable as possible.

Our food distribution has seen the most increase this last year. Family Care Ministries volunteers worked at making sure the 507 food parcels went to the most needy families and child-headed households. Elijah in Evaton West, Iris in Diepkloof, Soweto, and Mandla, Zanele, Eunice and Manja in Orange Farm spend time with families and in the households to see in which other ways they could better their personal situations. Some were helped with legal work, others were helped to get the medical attention they needed while others received assistance towards educational needs.

We continued to bring a wholesome hot meal to the 120 elderly in Brixton throughout the past year. The team of volunteers has grown and the new team members have added hot dogs, snacks and juice for the children to the meals distributed. The fruit and home baked cupcakes are an all-time favourite now. The encouraging words and time spent praying for needs make the visit a highlight of the month for many of the elderly. We are grateful for the many helping hands that join us in this effort.

Ouma Helen, now 86, amazes everyone by still venturing out to Industria every week. Despite her age, she tirelessly does all she can to assist the needy in this community. Despite existing on a small pension, struggling to move around and still looking after her great grandson, she keeps going and going. What an example!

Sister Glover, who we supported for many years with food donations for families in Noorgesig in Soweto, went to her heavenly reward at the age of 89. Family Care Ministries‘s help to the families still continues though as we now deliver the food items to a NPO that used to closely work with her.

On Heritage Day, the 24^th of September, South Africans are encouraged to celebrate their culture and the diversity of their beliefs and traditions. A nation belongs to all its people.  Family Care Ministries volunteers used this opportunity to celebrate with the elderly in Orange Farm. Donations of meat, rice & vegetables where used by some of the women to cook a delicious local meal to share with a group of pensionists. No such event is complete without lots of speeches, dancing and some encouraging words from the word of God. The elderly were given over 50 food parcels to take home so their families can benefit as well. It was a joy-filled day spent in the local community together. A similar event was held a week later in Evaton West.

The following is a list of food items distributed by Family Care Ministries volunteers in 2017:

• 507 food parcels
• 892 crates of fresh fruits, vegetables, other assorted foods, canned or dry goods
• 620 kg frozen potato chips
• 300 kg frozen vegetables
• 25 kg of a rice
• 350 kg of meat
• 8000 loaves of bread
• 100 kg dried beans
• 462 kg maize
• 15 kg Maltabella
• 20 kg of sugar
• 750 Vienna sausages
• 360 l of milk
• 16,000 eggs

No Kids without School Shoes

Family Care Ministries started a campaign “No kids without school shoes”. Our volunteers who visit families regularly noted how some of the children were in great need of school shoes. Some didn’t have any, others had shoes that were too small or broken beyond repair. We identified over 100 children in Orange Farm & over 50 children in Evaton West that are in desperate need of school shoes and have managed to provide 21 pairs to some of the neediest in Orange Farm and Evaton West so far.

Family Care Ministries projects serve as a rallying point for like-minded people who would like to be a part of charitable endeavours.  A group of Christian business men, who call themselves a Band of Brothers, joined our volunteers in Orange Farm in visiting and ministering to people in the community. They sponsor 15 food parcels for disadvantaged families and orphan households in Orange Farm each month and then help in distributing them praying and encouraging people as they do. They do their best to help out in other ways.

A Mrs South Africa contender purchased 25 blankets and distributed them with us to families in Orange Farm and Evaton while a Christian school added another 50 helping with ministering to people as they did.

Other Donations

Other donated goods included items such as a guitar, a casestte player, a colour copier with 5 extra toner cartridges, briefcases, a bed, desk, chairs and office chairs. Kitchen equipment such as 2 stoves, 5 kettles, 5 irons, a blender, 2 toasters, pots, salad bowls, and a grill and braii set were distributed to those who needed or could use these items. Household goods consisted of 10 cushions, 20 pillows, a laundry basket, a large tub, an ironing board, 6 large bags of curtains, 4 boxes of household ware, 2 boxes with plates, cleaning supplies such as dish soap, Handy Andy, bleach, and toiletries such as shampoo, toilet paper, soap, toothpaste and toothbrushes and more. And let’s not forget the boxes and boxes of Christmas decorations Family Care Ministries was able to give away.

The children were thrilled to receive a total of 4 bags of toys, balls and a box with games. They were a little less excited about the 100 Ring binders, files and 4 boxes of stationary supplies we gave out but were grateful nonetheless as they needed them for school work. We received the floor paint, paint brushes and roller we needed to complete work at our centre in Evaton West. The 4 wheelchairs and adult diapers went to the handicapped in Orange Farm.

To top it off we distributed a total of 4 bakkie loads of clothes and shoes.

Early Childhood Development Workshops

Many of the problems experienced by educators teaching in South Africa’s primary and secondary schools can be traced back to the lack of input children receive in their early years when the foundation for future learning is laid.

It is often overlooked that the foundation for literacy is built long before a child begins Grade 1. It starts while children are still in nappies. Learning to talk, listen and understand are precursors to identifying letters and sounds, and later words and whole sentences. Playing with number toys, building blocks and shapes allows children to get an understanding of mathematical concepts while they play. Experiences of this nature at an early age are essential to future academic success.

Though more emphasis has been placed on ECD by government, we find that little direction or support filters down to caregivers at day care centres and preschools in township areas such as Orange Farm and others. Most of the resources developed by the department, don’t reach the areas where these materials are most desperately needed. Lack of access to the internet, training, and money make most of these resources inaccessible to the many caregivers in small preschools. This leaves centres in township areas under-resourced and staff untrained.

In 2017 Family Care Ministries’ focus shifted from offering training in Orange Farm alone to include other surrounding townships. We held workshops in Ennerdale, Eldorado Park, and Boksburg. 109 principals and caregivers were able to get some important input and training on the developmental needs of babies, toddlers and young children. The resources that have been created to go along with the programme are in big demand and we are looking for ways of raising sponsorship to donate sets of these teaching resources to the most needy preschools.

Here are some responses from the workshops.

• For me this workshop has really taught me a lot. There’s some things I never really understood. – Alicia
• I really enjoyed the workshop and I’ve learned more about children’s development. I’ve learned more about things I didn’t know about and I am going to implement what I’ve learned with my children/learners. – Sibongile
• The facilitator was well prepared, the information valid and relevant. She didn’t try to be fancy or unfair. I enjoyed the level of respect and that she was on the same page as the rest of the teachers. She understood that all centres are different and was able to relate topics to everyday usage. – Vanessa
• I enjoyed the course a lot. The facilitator did well so that I understood everything she shared with us. I was amazed to see the amount of learning materials we can make out of waste materials. I am truly impressed. Thank you. It is much appreciated. – Shireen

Prison Ministry

Family Care Ministries’ rehabilitation work at Kutama Correctional Center in Makhado continued throughout the year 2017. Bible Study classes were again held in each of the three prison sections. The facilitators who are inmates are overseen by the residing Chaplain. We offered three course which 237 inmates signed up to. 208 offenders graduated successfully by the end of the year. Though we are unable to visit very often due to the distance and security restrictions at the facility, we correspond regularly with inmates. We do our best to answer mail with requests and questions promptly.

We again received sponsorship in the form of Christian booklets on different themes. We were able to mail 136 of them to those participating in our advanced course. The course materials and booklets resonate with many inmates.  Here are some responses that we got:

• The Word of God changed my life completely. Now I understand why a human being must suffer. I know the illustrations and parables of the word in the Bible will help me a lot. May the Lord God extend your life like the way you change my life. I love the word of God more than anything. – Solomon
• I would like to thank you for showing me the importance of the word of God. May God richly bless you for the good work that you are doing for us while we are here in prison. God bless you. What I can say today to you is that I started to teach the words of God and minister them to others to help them understand how much God loves them. We are blessed by God now and happy to love God and to forgive other people who wronged us as the same we request the people we have wronged to forgive us. So thank you so much. Thanks to your hard work you are doing for Christ to us who are spiritually young. Thank you for taking such a good care for us. Why I say all this is because I can ask as many questions as I like but you keep on answering me and you make me to love God every day. – Siphiwe
• Thank you so much for this lesson. I am so highly blessed by this teaching. Thank you so very much and may the Lord God and our Saviour Jesus Christ richly bless you. I am very grateful that I have known you, Josef and Talitha, and also Family Care Ministries. I pray for your strength and growth in this work of Christ. May you continue to bless many more other believers and those who do not have the knowledge of Christ. – David
• This course taught me about all the possible things God can do in my life if only I believe in Him. It also taught me about personal responsibility and to respect the values and beliefs of others. – Charles

 Christmas Programmes and Events

Christmas is a time of giving. It is a special time to help the disadvantaged so that they, with the help of a food parcel, can also celebrate this holiday season to fill their hearts with hope and courage.

Family Care Ministries uses Christmas as an opportunity to bless the less fortunate in Evaton West and Orange Farm. It is always a joyful event to celebrate with the elderly and children by hosting Christmas parties for them.

In Evaton the party is held at the local community hall and is attend by over 200 children. We provided the jumping castle, organised games, and served snacks and a hot dog lunch. Before children return home they receive a stationary gift pack with a colouring and story book and some snacks. This provides them with some fun activities to do over the Christmas holidays. The basic stationary set offers something to start school with when it opens again.

The local councillor is thrilled that we have chosen her community to work with the youth and elderly and needy families. Being aware of the desperate needs in some of the households, she is grateful for the regular food items and food parcels we distribute and other activities for the youth Family Care Ministries offers.

In Orange Farm the party is held at the local Itemoheng Primary school and is attended by over 400 children. It is more challenging to keep them all entertained but seeing children’s big smiles always makes it worth the effort.

Family Care Ministries assisted Ouma Helen who organised a party for the children at one of the housing complexes in Fleurhof she regularly visits. Many hands made the work feel light and the children enjoyed themselves and the jumping castle to the max.

 The elderly in Orange Farm and Evaton West were treated by Family Care Ministries with a get together, a meal and a food parcel to take home as well.

Outreach

We used up 31 boxes of paper in the time period this report covers to print numerous gospel tracts, Bible Verse booklets, Bible study course materials and other pamphlets in three languages. It is Family Care Ministries’ members passion to spread hope, cheer and comfort to all they meet. Aside from what we print, we also distributed 500 Christian magazines, 12 Bibles, 20 New Testaments, 177 other booklets and more. One-on-one conversations are best but volunteers also use social media such as email, Facebook, SMS or Whatsapp to spread the message and to counsel and encourage others to find faith in Jesus.

Malawi Work

Family Care Ministries has had a presence in Malawi for the past 7 years now. The focus of our work is on training laymen, students and pastors from different churches. The work has been supported financially and by way of gospel pamphlets, Bibles, New Testaments, and Bible verse booklets. All our members are volunteers dedicated to serving God as the love of Jesus compels them to share the Good News with their people.  To help the work to become sustainable and help members generate income for their families and cover travel expenses, Family Care Ministries has helped them start a farming project and trading post.

Activities Report for 2016

Training

A training venture we had long hoped to be able to invest time and money in took place in July 2016. We hosted a two day training workshop for 12 of our volunteers just outside Hekport at a Christian conference venue.

It is so easy to get wrapped up in the day to day work dealing with all the needs at hand. It is easy to loose focus in the process. Everyone found being able to step back and spending time with like-minded folks with similar goals and visions rejuvenating and strengthening. Family Care Ministries volunteers rallied around leadership topics of visions and goals. To practice and improve practical skills a talk was given on report writing. Valuable information on how to formulate letters to raise support and on writing project updates for interested individuals in the community will help projects become self-sustaining.

Early Childhood Development Workshops

2016 saw a tremendous increase not only of the number of workshops presented but also in the number of workshop attendees. After meeting the social worker in charge for ECD in the Orange Farm district, she invited Talitha, one of our volunteers, to briefly explain about the early childhood development workshops while in a forum meeting. The principals of all the ECD centers and preschools in the area usually attend. Getting the contact numbers of the nearly one hundred attendees made it so much easier to send invitations to the workshops. As a result we have had 40-50 attendees at each of the 3 day workshops. This year alone 139 caregivers were able to complete the 3 day training and got important input and training on the developmental needs of babies, toddlers and young children.

The resources that have been created to go along with the programme are in big demand but funding is still very limited. We are looking for ways of raising sponsorship to donate sets of these teaching resources to the most needy preschools in the future.

• I enjoyed this training very much because it gives me more information. I say as from today I want to improve my centre and kids because this opportunity is not just for fun. It is a serious responsibility. – Noxolo
• I got knowledge important for a teacher to learn. I was encouraged and got information on how to keep a child busy. I saw the importance for a child to read books and to see things and to make time to help children to get ready for writing. – Agnes
• I learned a lot about how to give children the opportunity to succeed in the future and how to teach the child. I think one day my dreams will be achieved. I like the way you teach us. You give me a lot of knowledge.  – Marcurina
• I think this workshop helped me a lot because I have learned so many things that I didn’t know. I think this helps many people because it teaches us a lot about teaching and developing many kids out there. There are a lot of things I didn’t know about or understand. Now I know how to deal with things that I come across. Yes, it is a very big challenge for everyone who is teaching the children. Yes, I think it made me open my eyes that children are very important. – Portia

Prison Ministry

In 2016, Family Care Ministries celebrated the 10^th year of offering Bible study courses to the inmates of the Kutama Correctional Center in Makhado. Of the 229 inmates that signed up most graduated successfully. Thirty-five of these were inmates enrolled in the advanced course. Running the course translates into printing and mailing thousands of copies of Bible study materials. In addition to the photocopied class sheets we mailed 193 booklets as supplementary course material.

This year we receive sponsorship in form of a booklet called “Freedom Within.” It is specifically written for inmates, those who have chosen to become Christians. The booklet centers on themes such as forgiving yourself and others, coping with fear and rejection, on your relationship with the Lord and others, and much more.

Many course participants are looking for answers, are troubled by their past and desperate for forgiveness. Most struggle to come to terms with the sins of their past and are trying to cope with the difficulties of life in prison. The words in the booklet have resonated with the ones we were able to donate a copy of it to.  Here are some responses that we got:

• I would like to thank you very much for sending me this important book of Freedom Within – From Jesus with Love. It is really full of words of comfort and guidance. This book has inspired me to forgive my mother who abandoned me when I was a child. Jesus said to forgive those who have wronged you. If you don’t forgive them, He can’t forgive you the wrongs you have done. – Mpho
• It was really good reading the book that you had sent to me. It was like you knew what was happening in my life. After reading this book many things started to change in my life. I’m a different person now. The part “Let go” really touched me. I was a person who likes holding grudges. But I have learned from the book to let go and forgive those who wronged me. In short, I can say this book taught me many things, how to love, forgive, praise, understand and care and to count on Jesus, and much more. – David
• Everything inside the book “Freedom Within” speaks to me. I lost hope in friends and people around me. They do not trust me because of my previous life even if I tell them I am no longer that person.
• I learn a lot of things from this book, from articles like “A Brighter Tomorrow.” It motivates me to make changes about my life. Topics like “You Can Never Be Too Bad for Jesus” open my eyes. I used to judge myself according to the things that I had done. I did not know that there is Someone who loves me. Thank you again for blessing me with this book. – Siyabonga

Christmas Programs and Events

Family Care Ministries’ Christmas programs and events have benefited 800 children this year. Four Christmas events were organized for the children in Diepkloof, Soweto, Orange Farm and Evaton West. The children enjoyed the tug of war, sack races and other activities to the max. Of course the jumping castles were again a big hit. Family Care Ministries provided a lunch, juice and snacks for each child and a gift parcel containing some stationary items and a colouring and story book to take home.

Outreach

The most effect way to share the Gospel is on a day to day basis with those who one comes into contact with. Family Care Ministries volunteer’s passion for 2016 was to explain to as many as possible all Jesus has to offer and what we owe Him our gratitude for. So Bibles and New Testaments, Bible course material, Scripture verse booklets, and tracts were printed and distributed. In addition, volunteers used social media such as email, Facebook, SMS or Whatsapp to spread the message and counsel and encourage others to find faith in Jesus.

Malawi Work

Throughout all of 2016 Family Care Ministries supported the work in Malawi both by giving monetarily and by printing and shipping local language tracts and booklets to coworkers in Malawi to help them in their outreach and teaching. This has resulted in more leaders being raised to carry the message even further. Vegetable gardens are being planted and other small business ventures are started to meet the desperate needs for a source of income for workers as well as to share the produce with the people they minister to. Two bicycles were sponsored to allow teachers to cast a wider net and start Bible study groups in outlying areas without having to deplete their very limited resources available.

Activities Report for 2015

Helping Those in Need

The following is a list of food items distributed by Family Care Ministries in 2015:

•  245 crates of canned and dry goods
• 1054 crates of fresh fruits, vegetables and other assorted foods
• 3600 loaves of bread
• 650 kg cucumbers
• 500 kg frozen vegetables
• 390 kg potatoes
• 250 kg maize
• 100 l of oil
• 120 kg of sugar
• 75 kg of chicken
• 500 kg of Vienna sausages
• 240 l of milk
• 7000 eggs
• 350 kg broken biscuit, cookies or rusks
• 20 kg chips
• 320 kg of a rice, soya, and dehydrated vegetable mix

This adds up to many hours of driving to pick up and deliver food items as we aim to help as many needy families and child-headed households as possible through our food distribution program. There seems to be no end to the need, but we believe that as we help and encourage those in need both physically and spiritually they will become empowered to help themselves.

Family Care Ministries volunteers brought a wholesome hot meal and a piece of fruit every month of the year to 120 elderly pensioners in Brixton.

Activities Report for 2014

Helping those in need

Family Care Ministries distributed food donations of approximately 300 litres of milk, 3100 loaves of bread, 900 kg of potatoes, 72 trays of eggs, 1130 kg of meat, 1250 crates of assorted foods, fruits and vegetables and dry goods to the needy, elderly and unemployed. In addition to this we gave used clothing, folders and stationary. We received a half a bakkie full of curtain material and cut offs which we passed to a skill-building centre to use with their trainees.

Each month of 2014 members and volunteers visited

Activities Report for 2013

Bible Studies:

Bible studies continued in the townships and throughout Johannesburg. Each group is initiated and led by Family Care Ministries members who continue to share what they have learned through the 12 Foundation Stones Course and other training they have received. Throughout classes attendees are encouraged to actively participate in mission work and look for ways to meet the needs of others or their community. They often find that as they do God looks after their own needs. Teaching others to teach others empowers.

Outreach:
Regular outreach and visitation continues throughout Johannesburg, Evaton West, Orange Farm, Diepsloot, and the Vaal Triangle. Prayer, godly counsel and a word of encouragement go a long way.

Nduduzu and Ndivhuwo in Soweto, Elijah in Evaton West, and Abram in Diepsloot continued to spearhead our work amongst the youth. As Albert Schweitzer so wisely said: “In everyone’s life, at some time, our inner fire goes out.  It is then burst into flame by an encounter with another human being.  We should all be thankful for those people who rekindle the inner spirit.” At this point in time the most important thing one can do for youth is to encourage them never to give up.

Training:
Aside from the oversight and counsel our project managers received on a weekly basis throughout the year, Family Care Ministries held bi-monthly meetings to further train, inspire, and strengthen staff and volunteers. We need everyone’s input and ideas to achieve our objectives and therefore encourage discussion and the exchange ideas.

Workshops for Educators
In coordination with Change the World Trust we held 3 workshops for 7 primary schools from Tembisa. In total 144 educators benefitted. They were presented with envisioning thoughts and material gleaned from many educational and other websites to help them effectively deal with classroom management issues. Everyone had a clearer picture of what can and needs to be done about disruptive behaviour in the classroom and gained behaviour management skills through the strategies discusses and practiced.
Here are just a couple or the responses we got:

The workshop was great and relevant especially at this point in time when most educators are frustrated by ill-disciplined learners. What we have learnt today will help to ease the pressure and challenges which educators are faced with.  – Moses Khoele (Principal)

Definitely the workshop is so developing. I used to blame the learners forgetting that I may be part of the problem. From now on I will do self- inspection before blaming the learners. – Makwena (Educator)

I’ve learnt a lot from the workshop. I’m going to try and implement some of the ideas I got from this workshop and from my colleagues. I’m also going to share this information with others at my school. – Emily (Educator)

Early Learning Workshops

Children are the hope of the future, the future of South Africa will one day lie in their hands. They are entitled to receive a good education that lays the foundation for competence and that empowers them to realize their full potential. Each child no matter what their race or background is should have an equal chance to succeed in life. The Early Learning Workshop was put together with these goals in mind.
It’s now an accepted fact that a child learns more than half of all that he will learn in his lifetime by the time he’s five years old. Therefore Family Care Ministries offers skills development to practitioners and caregivers of babies, toddlers and preschoolers in Orange Farm. We held 5 workshops throughout 2013 and will continue to offer further training in 2014.

Here are some of the responses to the workshops:

I so liked everything about the workshop. It was very interesting and I learned more and more about early learning, especially with what to teach babies, toddlers, and pre-schoolers. My suggestion is if it is possible the workshop must continue because it is good for us.

I enjoyed the lesson. You have opened my mind.

You really made my day today. You make me love children so deeply again. I am going to do my job with love and care for the children. Thanks.

This workshop was very good for me. It makes me feel good and proud of what I am doing. Sometimes you feel that you are not doing right. But if you attend this workshop you feel motivated. You make us feel proud of what we are doing.

I’m glad I learned that we must give a child a good foundation for tomorrow so that they can have a better education.

Helping those in need:
Food donations of approximately 1,000 litres of milk, 3600 loaves of bread, 600 kg of potatoes, pasteries, 60 trays of eggs, 600 kg of meat, 600+ crates of assorted foods, fruits and vegetables went to the needy, elderly and unemployed. We were able to donate or distribute a computer and printer, several boxes of new pregnancy, newborn and children’s clothes and 20 bags of used clothes, pillow, blankets and shoes. We received one bakkie load of curtain material and cut offs which we were able to pass to a skills building centre which will use them with their trainees.

Help for the Elderly

Each month of 2013 we served a wholesome meal to 120 elderly in Brixton, who are housed in complexes provided for them. Our visits are a highlight for them as we make a point of spending some time chatting with them and visiting those who for health reasons cannot leave their quarters. Many appreciate the prayer and care they have received over the years.

Prison Ministry:
Kutama Sinthumule Correctional Centre (Maximum Security Prison in Makhado, Limpopo):
In December 2013 we concluded our 8th year of ministering to inmates in this facility. We had a total of 117 inmates who regularly attended the two courses we offered. Throughout the year we mailed 1,190 class sheets as well as 57 booklets for the ten unit course  to inmates throughout the year. The material left a visible impact on lives as was evident from the tests and letters we received.

In early January 2014 we were able to award 80 students with certificates.

Here are some reactions from inmates:

Mishack:  I am satisfied with the way you help us to understand how to make a relationship with the Lord in Jesus Christ. Thank God. God bless you for giving me this opportunity.

Justice: I ask you to continue to give other inmates a chance to learn this Bible study course of Family Care Ministries because they will know the challenges of Christian living and also help them to build their faith like us as you taught us this important course. They will know that God is love and that he loves us to love one another. Thank you and God bless you.

Tumelo: Thank you for the help. I will stick to Jesus Christ because He is a Saviour.

Leeuwkop Correctional Centre
Jeff and Linda White continued their visitation at Leeuwkop Correctional Centre to hold classes with small groups of inmates. The time they share with inmates is impacting lives as they counsel those they minister to. They have been able, in some cases, to offer assistance to family members of inmates. This is much appreciated by those unable to care for their families.

Christmas events:
Parties for children
Family Care Ministries organized again Christmas parties for children in Orange Farm and in Evaton West. Word is going around about the events and the number of children attending has increased every year. This year we were able to organise a magic show for one event and a puppet show for the other. The children were fascinated. It was a real treat for them as they had never seen the like before.  The games and activities were a hit again. People from the community came forward to help prepare and serve the hot dogs, drinks and snacks we had bought. Everyone pitched in to help pack and distribute the gifts to the children: pencils, colour pencils, stationary sets, colouring books, masks, cereal, snack packs and more. A company provided about 120 toys which included dolls and animal sets, Lego sets, cuddly toys, soccer balls, water guns and more. We were able to pass these to orphaned children and those from the most needy households. What a joy it was to see the smiles on the children’s faces.

Party for the elderly
Our event for the elderly coincided with the memorial service that was held in honour of Nelson Mandela. The elderly had to brave the cool and wet weather to join in the fellowship. Though the atmosphere was more sober than in previous years, everyone enjoyed the food, the raffle and sharing what Mr. Mandela means to them. The hall was beautifully decorated by volunteers and everyone went out of their way to make each person feel welcomed and loved. Each attendee received a gift bag with a pamphlet with an encouraging Christmas message, a booklet, some cookies and a coffee mug.

Malawi Work:
Though most of our efforts are concentrated on the local work, in the past year members of Family Care Ministries went on two mission trips to various cities in Malawi to encourage, train and direct the work taking place in this needy country. They were inspired to see the work progressing with local youth starting various projects to meet various needs in their communities. We continued our support by providing them with gospel literatures for their outreaches as well as some financial support to help struggling workers who minister under difficult circumstances in impoverished communities. We continually strive to empower and encourage self-sufficiency.

Activities Report for 2012

 Helping those in need:

Food donations of approximately 1,200 liters of milk, 4,500 loaves of bread, 200 kg oats, 50 kg of maize, 900 kg of potatoes, 750 kg of frozen potato fries, 400 cans of cream, 350 kg of frozen veggies, 120 trays of eggs, 500 kg of meat, 800+ crates of assorted foods, fruits and vegetables went to the needy, elderly, unemployed and our mission stations.

Each month of 2012 we served a wholesome meal to 120 elderly in Brixton, an area housing many low income families and people. In addition to this, we regularly delivered bread, other food items and vitamins to assist them. Family Care Ministries members arranged medical care for two of the elderly, an eye-checkup and sponsorship for the needed eye glasses and treatment for a 96 year old lady suffering from ingrown toenails.

Work among the youth:

Nduduzu and Ndivhuwo in Soweto, Elijah in Evaton West, and Abram in Diepsloot continued to spearhead our work amongst the youth. Offering mentorship, spiritual guidance and a listening ear, gives the children, teenagers and young people much needed attention.

Activities Report for 2011

Activated Library and Reading Room:

The Library/Reading Room has served as a meeting place for prayer, Bible studies, worship and practice for the band consisting of 10 Christian youths. The Bible studies and Sunday meetings that were held throughout the year have provided direction and purpose to those attending.

Bible Studies:

We have completed the Bible course for the group of 15 interested students and teachers at the Langlaagte Technical Highschool. It was a joy to pour into the youngsters who are very active teaching and encouraging their peers to live a Christian life and reaching them for Jesus.

Other Bible study classes take place in Evaton West, Soweto and downtown Johannesburg.