Alex children’s haven a beam of light
Pastors and board members encourage and spoil youngsters
Children at Jehovah Jireh Haven in Alexandria were given words of affirmation when they were visited by pastors and the home’s board members, and also enjoyed special treats.
JJH was started by Molly and Neels Bam more than 30 years ago, who opened their home as a place of safety for abused and orphaned children in the area.
With no state subsidy, the generosity and support of the public has kept the home running.
At present, the couple look after nearly 60 children between three months to 18 years of age.
The pastors present encouraged the children to make good choices in life; to go to school and to live their lives for God.
“Think about where you want to be in life one day and make friends with children who will help you make good choices.
“It is always better to make good choices in life so you don’t have to be constantly looking over your shoulder when you walk,” warned Sylvia Roux, who does fundraising for the home.
“Make good decisions that will have a good impact in your life.
“We’re here because we want you to have a better life, so we’re here to support you.”
The children were spoilt with treats, bought by the home’s board members, and given “dream books” by a donor.
They were encouraged to write down their goals and dreams in their books.
The pastors encouraged the children and told them how much they were loved.
The board also promised to provide computers and laptops and do workshops to equip the children with basic computer literacy by the end of December.
The children were excited to hear about new projects that they will soon be able to enjoy.
Two of these include a vegetable garden that will benefit the home, and a crafts centre.
This will then see the introduction of a rewards system which will encourage the children to actively participate in the projects.
MJ and Lucinda van Jaarsveld, the owners of Pick n Pay Port Alfred, who have always been involved in community projects, will be donating goodies for monthly birthday parties for the children, from the end of August.
The home does not receive any funding and relies solely on donations.
It is in need of wool to teach the children how to knit and crochet and would also appreciate any type of craft materials.
People can also donate clothes, blankets, toys, games or books for the home, which can be dropped off at Pick n Pay in Heritage Mall.
If you can donate materials such as paint for maintenance or fencing for the new vegetable garden, contact Sylvia Roux on 076-455-5144.
Make good decisions that will have a good impact in your life. We’re here because we want you to have a better life, so we’re here to support you.