Ikholwa creates a home for children

Ikholwa in Weltevreden Park aim to give hope to children who are in need of a bit of hope. They do not only provide disadvantaged children with a place to stay but aim to give them a home and a normal family life.

Ulrike Mann, general manager of Ikholwa explained that they have three homes. One for children from birth till seven years old, a girls house for girls between seven to 18 years and a boys home for boys aged between seven and 18. “We have a total of 20 children in our care at the moment,” said Mann.

She added that Ikholwa takes it in their strides to create a home that is a place of safety and has a lot of love. “The children that come here has generally been removed from their homes, been abandoned or their parents cannot take care of them,” explained Mann. Ikholwa opened in 2002 and since about 150 children have come through their doors.

Many children in the care of Ikholwa have been adopted, especially by people from European countries. “Three years ago we started with an adoption process in America. Five of our children have been adopted by American families and are doing very well,” said Mann. According to Mann, one of the boys that were adopted by an American family even had the chance to meet Hilary Clinton.

Mann said that she has a heart for the children and wants to do everything she can for them. “They are all like my own children in their own special way. Whether they feel joy or sadness, I feel it with them,” said Mann. She added that the best part of working with the children is to see how they change for the better when coming to Ikholwa.

Mann said that they receive no funds from the government and rely on the community for funds. “We are always in need of day to day groceries, as the children need to have a balanced diet,” concluded Mann.

Details: Ikholwa, 011 478 1085 or info@ikholwa.com

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