Thursday, August 23, 2007

On Monday, on our way home to Johannesburg we stopped in a little town by the name of Clocolan to visit a Youth Center that is a home for 24 orphans or vulnerable children (which usually means they are neglected or abused). We were very impressed by the woman,Marieta, who was instrumental in acquiring and running the home. They have trainers that teach the children different styles of jewerly that they then make and market in the U.S. or other places. With the proceeds the children learn to save money and also to help in their own upkeep. We then followed her to another town, Ficksburg, where she took us to a shack in which 36 children are living. It was incredible to think that they could all fit inside at one time. Some have to sleep on the dirt floor in one small room while the rest are crammed into another room about 10'x15'. We met about eight of the children and the 'mother' who cares for them. They were so sweet. Marieta said she has a friend coming from Canada on Aug. 31st to purchase a house in Clocolan to put these children in and get them out of such mean circumstances.When we were leaving, (had to climb a hill back to the car), we found out that there was no food in the shack to give to children so we emptied out our stash of food and sent it back down to them. At least they could have a lunch. There are so many good people trying to help others however they can. What a privilege to get to know them. We will be traveling back to Lesotho in the next week or two and will take quilts, school and hygiene kits with us to give to Marieta for the children.I'll send you a few pictures on the next email.Love you,Kris

6 comments:

Kris and Terry said...

It brought tears to my eyes reading about those children and my sweet parents giving what they have to them to help. Lunch, wow, something I take for granted. (JMR by the way, too lazy to log out and log back in)

KickButtMommy said...

I can't ever remember a time in my life where I was truly hungry. How spoiled am I?

Cara said...

I love reading these stories. I am so thankful for all the good people in the world doing great things!

Anonymous said...

I have a feeling that you and Elder Rix will never look at the world the same way again after your mission. And thanks to you, I am becoming more aware of how incredibly we are are blessed and should share. Thank you for all that you do and are in a position to know and do.

KickButtMommy said...

Last night my kids were complaining about what a hard life they have. I marched them both up here and showed them the pics and read them the story! Hopefully it will make them think.

FRYBABY said...

I am speechless.....we have so much and surely take it for granted. I need to stop praying for what I think my family needs and start praying for those who REALLY are in need! I am glad that someone is trying to help them....