Our Story
In the heart of Middelburg, Mpumalanga, South Africa, three visionaries—Johan van Rensburg, Peter Martin, and Andre Brandmuller—saw more than just an empty building. They glimpsed a sanctuary, a beacon of hope for children in need. With unwavering determination, they embarked on a journey to transform the old Albert Herbst Children's Home into the Middelburg Care Village.
Their dream took flight with a miraculous gesture from three mining giants—Xtrata Coal, Anglo Coal, and BHP Billiton—whose generosity paved the way for the purchase of the property. In 2003, the Middelburg Care Village NPC was born, a testament to the power of community and compassion.
On 24 April 2004, under the watchful gaze of Middelburg's executive mayor, Cllr Manthlakeng Mahlangu, the Care Village officially opened its doors. With just one child in foster care, we embarked on a mission to provide not just shelter, but a nurturing environment where children could flourish.
By 2007, the Care Village had blossomed, with over twenty children finding solace within its walls. Our dedication was recognized by the Department of Social Development, leading to the registration of Middelburg Care Village, as a Child and Youth Care Centre under the Children's Act.
For two decades, the Middelburg Care Village has stood as a haven, offering education, opportunity, and above all, love, to over a hundred children placed in our care. Yet, amidst the triumphs, challenges loom large.
The true cost of care far exceeds the modest government subsidy of R4000 ($220) per child per month which we receive. The Middelburg Care Village's greatest challenge lies not just in meeting the physical needs of the children in our care, but in providing the emotional and spiritual support necessary to prepare these children for the world beyond their sanctuary.
And so, a new dream is born—a Pipeline to the Future. It's a vision of empowerment, of breaking barriers, and of giving every child a chance at success. In pursuit of this dream, we seek not just investors, but partners—those willing to think beyond convention, to pave new paths for those in need.
Hope burns bright over the Middelburg Care Village. For in this place of love and resilience, every challenge is but a stepping stone, and every dream, a promise waiting to be fulfilled. Together, hand in hand, let us journey towards a future where every child's story is one of triumph, and where the seeds of compassion yield a harvest of hope for generations to come.