New Partnership!

Susanna, pictured here is one of our cooks at the cafe. BC (before cafe) she was our housekeeper and now she works at the cafe instead. We have another cook, and have just added two of our students to our payroll. Yes, we are that busy! Nice, eh?

This exciting adventure has brought us to a whole new level! Here we are, directing a Youth Discipleship and Mentoring program, operating a small cafe, serving breakfasts, lunches, and home-baked goodies with GREAT coffees. That would be enough to keep us content and fulfilled, but God has added a bonus. Closwa, #2 Billtong company in South Africa is based here in Okahandja and the executives have taken a keen interest in our program. They are offering a three-month employment contract to the students who complete our program. Can you believe that? The Lord has sent us so many people near and far who have not only expressed enthusiasm for what we are doing, but have gone above and beyond by contributing to what we are doing - either financially, practically or in this case, offering employment. There's no way we could employ everyone who completes our program, and the students are aware of that. You can imagine that while they are happy for the training, they wonder, "What will I do after this training is over? Will I find work then?" With unemployement at about 50% this offer is such a great opportunity. When the GM of Closwa came and announced this offer to the students, they were overwhelmed. We are still pinching ourselves to make sure we are awake. Check out the Closwa website: http://www.closwa.com/

Remember the Children

Three of the attendees in our program have a child and are unmarried. None of them have employment which makes it very challenging to meet the responsibilites of parenthood. Pictured here is Joseph and his little angel, Joy. Isn't she adorable? She is entering grade one this year and the YDM program has helped with her school expenses along with 7 others related to this program - some are younger brothers or sisters of attendees. It brings us pleasure to help in this way. The government schools here require school tuition as well as uniforms, and of course, books, and supplies. Cost for one child per year is about $75 US, about N$1000. For unemployed parents, it's nearly impossible without some sort of sponsorship either from relatives or someone with a BIG heart! So, thank you to all our partners for helping with schooling these 8 little ones.