Sparrow Village celebrates 31 years of existence on Valentine’s Day

Once a divine flame is lit, that hope has the potential to last through the decades.

Opened by the Father of the Nation in 1991, Sparrow Village has had a long and storied history. Nelson Mandela helped gift the world with the very first dedicated AIDS hospice, and Reverend Corine McClintock has carried the torch since day one. Valentine’s Day is not just the day of lovers, but the anniversary of Sparrow Village’s opening, an occasion celebrated for the 31st time in 2022.

“When Madiba was walking through the doors I was still busy cleaning the floors,” laughed the enigmatic Reverend. Now 83 years old, the no-nonsense woman of God may have a tough exterior but inside the heart of a saint still beats with purpose. Having experienced enough hardship to last several lifetimes, Corine perseveres with her dedication to offering a safe haven for the mothers and children of those affected by AIDS.

To mark the occasion, the village had a braai for the residents, followed by some ice cream for dessert. “We would love to do more but there is very little money available,” she said. Once an bright example reflecting the potential of South Africa’s new beginning, Sparrow Village has fallen on hard times, neglected by government departments and plagued by thefts and vandalism on the easily accessible plot of land.

Orphans and neglected children in need come from all over the county, openly embraced by the Reverend and the support staff at the village. The village caters for mothers as well as their children, with many of those who grew up at the village returning to assist in some capacity. Every cent goes to feeding, clothing and educating residents, and donations of anything to assist are always greatly appreciated by the Reverend.