1. ttt4c ministry update
turn the tide 4 children is now in its fifth year of ministry and still going strong! We are pleased to report that we currently support 21 projects around the country through our child sponsorship program. In addition, we launched the SEED Strategy last September with seven churches currently in the pilot program. With the dream of seeing 100,000 vulnerable children receiving care through local churches, the ttt4c ministry team continues to work diligently to have a significant impact!
2. SEED pilot program in full swing
The SEED Strategy began as a dream to find even more effective ways of empowering churches to care for vulnerable children. Through this new strategy, churches are equipped with the skills needed to work effectively in local communities. By building capacity in local churches, ttt4c helps build strong communities where vulnerable children can thrive because they are receiving holistic, community-based support.
With the pilot program in full swing, plans for 2008 include five training events with topics like Strategic Planning, Community Development, Project Management and Fundraising. In addition, we will be hosting representatives from our supported projects and SEED churches at the annual Sondelani Breakaway. Look for reports on the SEED churches in future issues of ttt4c Updates!
3. Church sees need and starts after-care centre
The community of Windsor in Johannesburg is home to many vulnerable children. Because many parents in this area work long hours for very low pay, the children are left without adult supervision after school. In addition, many of the families rent floor space in a flat, with four to five families living in a two bedroom unit.
After seeing this need, Northcliff Union Church decided they could make a difference! As part of ttt4c’s SEED pilot program, the church developed their strategic plan and launched Tsepo After-Care program in October which quickly grew from 4 to 14 children in the first month. The church works closely with local schools, as well as parents and a social worker, to provide holistic care. With the support and training from ttt4c, we trust that this new initiative will continue to grow and impact the Windsor community!
We look forward to seeing what God has in store for our ministry in 2008 and we trust that as we strengthen churches and communities, many more vulnerable children will experience the love and care they need to become confident and productive young people! Thank you for being a part of what God is doing at turn the tide 4 children.
The ttt4c Team