Leaky roof mended
MIDRAND - Proportional representation councillor for Ward 110 Richard Newby and his committee have ensured that the six children of Bakgethwa Orphan Centre have a sturdy roof over their heads.
Newby said the centre was founded about three years ago by Matankie Makhetha after she saw three children eating from a dustbin.
The youngest of these children was two years old.
The image touched Makhetha as her father was an orphan. Newby said, “She saw the effects on him having been brought up in a loveless environment. It was this which prompted her to start an orphanage, just as soon as she could afford it, and to dispense as much love and care as she could to the unfortunate few.”
The March rains caused havoc for the centre as the roof started leaking and Newby was approached by some residents to help.
“I examined the roof with a contractor friend, Graeme Upton and it was decided that the best solution would be to seal the corrugated iron overlaps with a product, Super Laykold Tape,” he said. “I then approached the suppliers, a.b.e. Construction Chemicals, which after hearing of the predicament, very kindly agreed to donate sufficient Super Laykold to seal all the overlaps. Hopefully everybody will sleep peacefully and dry from now on.”
Bakgethwa means the ‘chosen ones’ and the centre is a non-profit organisation which is home to children from three years old to 13.
Newby said, “In addition, 43 children ranging in age from two to 18 years who live with friends, family or foster parents receive a meal at Bakgethwa after school twice a week. Matankie also provides clothing when required.”
He explained the home was financed by four social grants of R300 each every month and two foster care grants of R800 per month.
“Two other kind souls regularly deliver food to her and her three working children make contributions to balance the budget,” said Newby.
