One of the DeVries children were approached on how he felt about the 21 years that his parents have been involved and started the ministry as it is today.
Gracie, who is also known as Paula, was first brought to one of our community centres at the age of 3. She was being carried by her 9-year-old sister. When Gracie arrived, she could not walk or speak, and we discovered that she was blind in one eye. This was due to being hit by a vehicle as a toddler. Her development had also been affected as a result of fetal alcohol syndrome, which is a common occurrence in impoverished communities.
Natasha first visited our Community Centre in New Dawn Park at the age of 11, along with her younger brother and sister. She attended every afternoon following school, walking long distances to be part of our programme, and soon made a commitment to give her life to Jesus. As part of our Life Skills Programme, Natasha attended music lessons and was given a guitar. Shortly afterwards, she became a Youth Leader and showed exceptional dedication to her education.
Sibusiso Aaron Mtete is a remarkable young man. He grew up in the township of Thembalethu, George, under extremely difficult circumstances. Despite the efforts of his Grandmother, Aaron was homeless and living on the streets by the age of 10. This was his life for almost two years.