We choose to make a difference
We believe that everyone has a responsibility to make a difference in the
world around us, to take ownership and to show their faith and love for
others through their actions. When we met the people of Platfontein and
experienced their situation first hand, we knew they needed more than a
campaign or a few days of food. They need assistance for the long run. To be
build up, to be educated, to become able to grow their own food and to earn
income to support themselves.
The road out of poverty is often a path of trial and error. It requires
effort and perseverance. To create sustainable and lasting change, it is
important that the people of Platfontein have a basis to fall back on. To
achieve this, we want to provide long-term presence and support. When a person
or family completes our programs and succeeds to support itself, we will remain
available for advice and support. So that if they stumble on their path, we can
offer a helping hand and lift them back up.
When the opportunity came early 2025, we applied for land in the area to
build a bakery, a farm and training facilities. This way we can provide food,
teach about growing and tending crops and provide skill and language training
in a stable and safe environment. In time, we plan to expand the farm and
bakery so the community will be able to support itself through paid employment
and selling the food that is produced.
In May 2025 local government has granted us 2,5 hectares of land for a period of 30 years and we have started clearing the first acre of land and construction of a fence. Water and electric connections are also being arranged. Bakery equipment and designs for the farm have been provided by sponsors as well. Professional bakers will train our team and a small group of locals how to run the bakery. While waiting for the bakery and farm to be completed, a soup kitchen is set up. Next steps are to complete the fencing, sow grass for the chickens, transport the bakery equipment on site, train the bakers and to begin construction of the farm and training facilities and purchase chickens and crops. Once the bakery and farm are up and running many lives will be impacted!
We apply the following core values to our projects.
Empowerment
No one likes to be dependent on financial support. That is why we want
to help the people of Platfontein to provide for their own livelihood in the
future.
Responsibility
We take responsibility through structural and long-term support.
Integrity
We respect the history and identity of the !Xun and Khwe and their
desire to preserve their own language and culture. We also understand that
traumatic experiences or lack of prospects can lead someone to bad habits.
However, we do not tolerate witchcraft, drug or alcohol abuse or
violence among participants in our programs.
Transparency
We have a clear approach. Our project partners and other
stakeholders communicate openly and clearly about our successes and areas for
improvement.