Working at Bophelo: From the Heart of a Social Worker
14 April 2025Working at Bophelo: From the Heart of a Social Worker
14 April 2025AN OPPORTUNITY FOR SUPPORT, INVOLVEMENT & DONATIONS
UNITING FOR GREATER IMPACT: THE MERGER OF HOUSE ELDAD & HOUSE JADE
Randfontein AGS, under the leadership of Pastor Gerrie Pretorius, has been the anchor assembly for House Eldad since its inception in 2004. Their deep involvement has shaped the lives of children who arrived as infants in 2004 and continue to transition out of the program. Pastor Gerrie is often moved to tears when he sees these once-small children grow into remarkable young individuals, thanks to the dedicated care, guidance, and support of everyone involved. His daily prayer is that God continues to renew his passion, as his unwavering love for the children, along with the dedication of the Eldad Committee, has been the backbone of House Eldad - even through challenges and changes in staff and committee members. We salute Pastor Gerrie’s integrity and thank the entire Eldad Committee for their passion and commitment.
We also extend our gratitude to Pastor Marius Keyter and Krugersdorp Central AFM, who served as the anchor assembly for House Jade until 2024. Together with the House Jade Committee, they provided exceptional care and valuable support to the children. We thank them for their leadership and the resources they contributed.
The Reason for the Merger of Houses Eldad and Jade
Since 2022, AFM Welfare has envisioned merging the two CYCCs to streamline operations and reduce costs amid financial challenges. The primary motivation is cost savings: House Eldad’s property is spacious enough to accommodate children from both centres after renovations, eliminating the rental expense for House Jade. The merger promises benefits such as cost-cutting, improved time management, and shared resources.
Renovation Plans
The transformation is set to be impressive once completed, though significant work is required to accommodate the additional 12 children from House Jade - particularly babies and toddlers with unique needs. The plan is to consolidate the programs into a single facility that will serve children aged 0 to 18 years, replacing the current setup of two separate houses. At present, House Eldad accommodates 10 children and House Jade houses 12. The unified centre will be able to accommodate a total of 22 children.
Call to Action
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the AFM Noordheuwel Assembly, under the leadership of Pastor Mes, for their generous R20,000 donation toward our renovation project. However, the quotation summary reveals that we still require significant financial support to complete this remarkable initiative.
Exciting times are ahead for the AFM Welfare Family, as we reach a significant milestone and bring a grand vision to life. We eagerly look forward to the expanded Eldad Child and Youth Care Centre. With the unwavering support of our Anchor Assembly, along with our dedicated staff and expert programs, we will continue to nurture our children. Our mission is to empower them to become the best versions of themselves, confidently walking in the plans God has for them.
Therefore, do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.
Matthew 6:31-33