Seasons Greetings From Acres of Love December 2005

“Treat people as if they were what they ought to be and you help them become what they are capable of being.” Goethe

What a year of change and growth this has been for Acres of Love. What has remained constant is the focus – ‘to rescue abandoned children and provide them with de-facto families and a bright future.’
Gerda and Ryan have always believed in treating the children as they would their own, and striving for excellence for them. Following this goal, Acres is now comprised of 8 Forever Homes with small groups of children, making up a family with house parents.
It is the firm belief that this provides the ideal environment for the children to grow - feeling secure, loved, appreciated and knowing that they belong!
The following is a list of the homes with addresses, contact details and house parent names.

Kelly May Howard-Browne Forever Home
31 Royce Rd Bryanston
House parent Anna Zindela
Phone 462-7489

Living Faith Forever Home
29 Royce Rd Bryanston Ext 45
House parent: Junior Diutlwileng
Phone 462-3793

Home of Hope Forever Home
33 Royce Rd, Bryanston Ext 45
House parents: Blessing and Lungi Mthethwa
Phone 462-0562

National Brands Forever Home
14 Leonard Rd, Olivedale
House parents: Daniel and Maria Magagula
Phone 704 –4794

Albertyn Life Church Forever Home
49 Platina Street, Jukskei Park
House parent: Precious Tshabalala
Phone 704- 4794

Santa Barbara and Friends Forever Home
19 Eileen Street, Blairgowrie
Jeanette and David Kumbi
Phone 787- 3074

Bridges Forever Home
37 Fourth Ave, Northmead, Benoni
House parent: Tume Tlapi
Phone 849 –2576

Sue Pebley Forever Home
36 Consuenol Drive, Blairgowrie
House parents: Chris and Miriam Forget
Phone: 781 –8384

Although I have not spent enough time in the various homes, one only has to speak to the house parents and listen to the love and pride in their voices to know that these units truly are little families, where each and every child is valued and acknowledged.
“As she supplies the affection and care that make a contented home, each mother is strengthening the individuals within her own circle as well as in the nation.” Earl E Chanley

Having just read ‘Why do I scream at God for the Rape of Babies’ by Claudia Ford, I am sickeningly reminded of the unspeakable horror of the state of our society. What is more apparent is that with the love of God and the incredible faith of people, there is always hope! This book is an incredible love story from an adoptive mother for her daughter where God’s love, faith and commitment are triumphant.

God has clearly entrusted us with sacred responsibilities – things that should be the first priority in our life. So much demands our attention. If we are not careful, we miss what is truly important. What an opportunity Acres provides for us to shine our lights to the ‘least of them’ – giving the children the glimmer of hope that they so deserve and need! In turn, we are hopefully able to ignite their fire and light to shine for others to see. “The real bravery is from those who can face their own helplessness, who because they know their interdependence with you can forgive you with their love.” Claudia J Ford.

Volunteers are still a vital and crucial part of the success of these homes. Please feel free to contact the house parents and they will guide you in the areas where help is really needed. If there is a particular child you have been involved with and you are not sure where they are living, our office manager – Muriel will be able to assist you. She can be reached on 704-1423. Muriel is so approachable and is always a cheery voice on the end of the line. Marion Heaney is handling new volunteers and her no. is 0823278531. Marion also co-ordinates with the house parents the various tasks that Acres needs assistance with, and the volunteer programme in general.

Ninni has become invaluable as our social worker and truly has her hands full with the ever-growing problem in our country. Ines is now also working in the office – 2 mornings a week and has asked if anyone would like to host children over the holiday period to contact her. With staff leave, extra volunteers are also needed and hugely appreciated!

After 7 years of devoted service to Acres, Janis has decided to opt for the role of volunteer – returning in her journey with Acres to where she began. Jan’s steadfast faith, commitment and love for the children have always been glaringly apparent in her quiet and gentle nature. With 2 beautiful daughters of her own, this lady of grace, humility and integrity has provided the essential core for Acres of Love. For Janis, the children always have come before anything else! Jan’s ability to teach the word of the Lord by living it has enriched so many of us. Jan – the staff, volunteers and most of all the children, salute you. You have made your mark on so many and we will really miss you, although we know that you will always be a part of Acres!

Our foster children – Simon, Andrew, Nkosi and Lulu continue to thrive in their own special environments and be perfect ‘ambassadors’ for Acres. We thank God that he has found the perfect place for each one of them and rejoice in watching them grow, as we still share in their lives.

With Christmas being a time of giving, our wish for you is that you may experience the true joy of giving – when you are able to share your time, energy and love with others that really need what you have!

“Begin today! No matter how feeble the light, let it shine as best it may. The world may need just that quality of light which you have.” Henry C Blim

God Bless You All
Kathy Buys

Acres of Love Inc. California Based 501 (c) (3) Non-Profit Benefit Corporation. A tax exempt organization.