Home gives disadvantaged boys a chance

AT THE weekend, I celebrated National Children’s Day by visiting the Beth Uriel House of Light in Salt River. The home works with young boys from previously disadvantaged communities between the ages of 18 and 24. It supports young boys abandoned by care systems once they turn 18, yet have limited opportunities because of a lack of skills and education.

Beth Uriel is a 26-bed facility that supports youth while they study at secondary and tertiary level.

Many of the boys stay at the home for five to six years. In 2015, seven of the 26 boys matriculated, with six going on to study further.

Without Beth Uriel’s educational support, most pupils would have left school in Grade 10. Nearly 50% of Beth Uriel’s intake is done in partnership with children’s home.

The other 50% come from community-based referrals, often with an emphasis on “diversion” which aims to keep the boys out of troublesome activities.

It was heart-warming to hear of some of the stories of the boys.

They have chosen education and personal growth, over gangs and drugs.

I have asked that the director of the home contact me directly if any of his boys have an interest in public administration, as their upliftment is the reason the EPWP program exists.

ALBERT FRITZ | Western Cape Minister of Social Development