Safe Haven for Kids

In late 2008, Kentz in South Africa commenced a project to assist a lady called Ma Selina. She is a woman with a large heart who has dedicated her life to looking after children. Unfortunately she has few resources. Ma Selina has opened up her tiny home in the settlement of Ivory Park, Midrand, South Africa to facilitate a safe haven for children after school and to keep them off the streets.  At the moment, she has 26 children in her care, many of whom have little if any parenting.

Work in progress in November 2008

Kentz in South Africa became involved in a project to improve her facilities and committed to rebuilding the premises, installing electricity, paving the yard, and walling the perimeter area. The work has been completed and the facility is vastly improved and ready to be used as a care centre for children. We have also supplied basic equipment including tables, chairs, crayons, educational books, building blocks, Plasticene®, blackboards and a jungle gym. Kentz will also be sponsoring a food programme and intends to expand the facility with another structure to cater for older children.

Ma Selina at the entrance to her school

In addition, Kentz helped Ma Selina to fulfil a dream and sponsored her attendance at the Early Childhood Development Conference in Cape Town, a wonderful, inspiring experience.   The theme of the conference was “African Early Childhood” and was attended by delegates from South Africa, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Mexico, Swaziland, Kenya, Ghana, Eritrea, Zambia, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe and Maputo. 

This is a drop in the ocean relative to the enormous need out there, but if everyone makes a contribution, no matter how big or small, it can help make a difference.

Contented children trying out their new swing