Jenny-Ann's Story

Jenny-Ann Toribio August 2009

Jenny-Ann visited Tabitha Hope Centre for just 4 days whilst on a trip for work. Jenny-Ann hoped to gain insight in to the impact of HIV/AIDS on a community and individual lives. Click here to read a short testimony from Jenny-Ann.

"Tabitha Hope Centre, orphanage for HIV-affected babies and children that have no relatives, is a place that nurtures young lives. Currently caring for 35 children from 6 months to 7 years old, it is a home full of activity and noise with a routine of daily activities, classes and chores like any other home - just more people involved! The staff - South African volunteers of Zulu, Afrikaans and Indian heritage - provide a caring, safe environment with age appropriate activities.

It was a privilege to visit and witness the joys and challenges of raising HIV-affected orphans first hand. These little ones that would otherwise perish, with care, medication and education, are being given opportunity to grow, to learn, to laugh in a 'big family'.

The costs of providing this standard of care are substantial. The Hope Centre, whilst supported by their local community and churches, needs assistance from volunteers and support through prayer and donations.

Though these orphans enter due to tragic circumstances and often with serious illnesses, they are in many ways the fortunate ones - with caring Mamas, a safe home, meals and clothes, times to learn and to have fun. They are Children with Hope!

My thanks to all at the Tabitha Hope Centre and the African Aids Foundation for your generosity and assistance with organisation of my 3-day visit in August 2009."

Take a look at some of the photos from Jenny-Ann's visit