Start a Preschool for 60 Children in South Africa

Together with the Board, staff, and families of Siyabonga, I would like to thank everyone who contributed to replacing our failing roof and repairing the damage to the interior of the building caused by the flooding. I am happy to report that the repairs went very well, despite some delays in the completion of the work due to ongoing rain. We are so pleased that the work is now done -- the roof, gutters, and rooms look perfect! Everyone, including the children, were excited to be back in the newly painted classrooms. We are extremely grateful for the assistance you provided.

While we’ve completed the urgent roof repairs, we still have two more projects to complete to rectify the damage caused by the past two years of heavy rain and flooding. We still need to repaint the exterior of the building and to rebuild the play structure to make it safe for the children to use again. We are hoping we can raise the needed funds soon to enable us to complete this work in the next few months.

Despite the slight disruption caused by the construction, everything has been going smoothly at Siyabonga. To ensure the children are getting enough physical and social development, as well as the chance to play, we started a new activity a few months ago we are calling Fun Friday. Every Friday one of the teachers leads a different sports activity. The children play soccer, netball, participate in races, or do something unique that a teacher has planned for the day. As you can imagine, Friday has become one the children’s favorite days at the Centre.

On September 1, we welcomed spring with some special lessons and activities for the children. An outdoor picnic was planned and the families who were able to brought goodies to share. Unfortunately, the weather did not cooperate, and we ended up having our picnic in the classrooms. Still, the children really enjoyed the special day.

As always, your support is essential to continuing our programs at Siyabonga. And if you give this week, your gift can have an even bigger impact! Starting tonight at 9:00 pm PDT (12:00 am Monday EDT) through Friday, September 22, 8:59 pm PDT (11:59 pm EDT), all online donations of up to $50 will be matched at 50% by GlobalGiving for their Little by Little Campaign. Your generosity this week can help us raise the funds we need to rebuild our play structure and paint our building!

Thank you again for everything you have done for Siyabonga over the years. We would not be able to provide the services we offer to children and families in our community without your support. You have truly helped to uplift the hundreds of children who have attended Siyabonga since it began.

With deep gratitude and best wishes,

Khethiwe