Amcare, a long-standing NPO rooted in Alberton, is celebrating 24 years of dedicated service to vulnerable communities, while also marking a significant personal milestone for its general manager, Marihet Infantino, who this year commemorates 15 years at the helm of the organisation.

Founded in January 2002 by the Alberton Methodist Church and Reverend Neill Robinson, Amcare has grown from a local initiative into a multi-faceted organisation delivering vital support to thousands of people across Alberton and surrounding areas.

Its work spans victim empowerment, gender-based violence interventions, HIV/Aids support, elderly care and community outreach, all underpinned by a strong ethos of dignity and sustainability.

Reflecting on the dual milestones, Infantino described her journey with Amcare as “nothing but a beautiful journey,” shaped by resilience, collaboration and an unwavering commitment to service.

Growth rooted in awareness and accessibility

Amcare’s growth over the past two decades has been driven not by expansion for its own sake, but by a deliberate effort to ensure equal access to services across all communities it serves.

While much of its work has historically been focused on township areas, increased awareness in Alberton itself has played a crucial role in extending its reach.

Infantino said that they are not a hospice that operates from a static site.

“Our work is community-based and responsive. By increasing awareness of who we are and what services we offer, particularly in Alberton, we’ve been able to reach people who previously didn’t know support was available,” she explained.

This approach has enabled Amcare to respond to evolving social challenges, including rising homelessness and increased vulnerability among women, children, and the elderly.

By meeting people where they are and offering tailored interventions, the organisation continues to deepen its impact across diverse communities.

Fifteen years of leadership rooted in service

As Amcare celebrates 24 years of impact, general manager Marihet Infantino also marks 15 years of dedicated leadership within the organisation.

Reflecting on her journey, she describes it as nothing but a beautiful one, shaped by resilience, shared purpose and the collective strength of those committed to Amcare’s mission.

Infantino paid tribute to the staff, volunteers, board members, church partners, donors, and community organisations who have walked alongside her over the years.

She acknowledged that it is through collaboration and unwavering support that Amcare has been able to respond to complex social challenges while remaining true to its values of dignity, empowerment, and compassion.

She emphasised that no achievement belongs to one individual, but rather to a network of people who believe in restoring hope and changing lives.

Their dedication, she noted, has ensured that Amcare continues to reach vulnerable individuals and families with quality, people-centred services, even during times of financial and operational difficulty.

Looking back with gratitude and forward with optimism, Infantino reaffirmed her commitment to leading Amcare with purpose, ensuring that the organisation’s mission remains not only relevant but deeply rooted in the needs of the communities it serves.

Community partnerships at the heart of sustainability

Central to Amcare’s longevity has been the strength of its partnerships.

Infantino emphasised that the organisation’s work would not be possible without the support of its funders, donors, volunteers and faith-based partners.

The Alberton Methodist Church, which birthed the organisation, remains a cornerstone of its operations, with Amcare now fully integrated into the church’s campus.

In addition, numerous local churches, schools and businesses provide ongoing assistance through food donations, dignity packs, school supplies, social work collaboration and practical resources.

Local businesses and corporate partners, along with individuals who contribute financially or donate goods, have helped Amcare navigate persistent financial pressures common to the non-profit sector.

Like many NPOs, Amcare continues to face funding uncertainties, including challenges related to Department of Social Development support and the broader economic climate.

“Financial challenges never really disappear in this sector. But what keeps us going is people. From small donations to regular contributions, every act of generosity allows us to keep our doors open and our services running,” she noted.

Empowerment through innovation and dignity

Among Amcare’s most impactful initiatives are the victim-friendly rooms established at local police stations.

These safe spaces have not only improved access to support for victims of violence, but have also increased awareness of Amcare’s services and strengthened referral pathways.

“These spaces allow us to empower people at one of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. Our focus has always been women and children, but we are also mindful of men and boys who often fall through the cracks,” Infantino said.

The organisation’s second-hand goods shop has become another vital pillar of sustainability.

Recently relocated to a larger, more visible premises, the shop generates essential income while simultaneously supporting clients with clothing, furniture and household items as they rebuild their lives.

“We don’t want to rely solely on government funding. The shop allows us to contribute towards our own sustainability, while restoring dignity to those we serve,” she explained.

Looking ahead with hope

As Amcare enters its 25th year, the organisation is focused on strengthening and expanding key services.

Plans include engaging with the Department of Social Development around funding for a dedicated homelessness intervention programme, increasing youth-focused services, and deepening its footprint within the justice system to ensure more consistent referrals for gender-based violence support.

Education and prevention also remain priorities, with plans to work more closely with schools to raise awareness around gender-based violence, sexual abuse and available support structures.

“At the heart of everything we do is hope. We want people to know that no matter how vulnerable their situation, there is always a path forward,” Infantino said.

A legacy of service

Amcare’s 24-year journey stands as a testament to the resilience of its staff, the dedication of its leadership and the generosity of the community it serves.

With Infantino marking 15 years of leadership, the organisation looks to the future with renewed purpose, grounded in strong partnerships and a clear mission.

As it continues to evolve, Amcare remains committed to providing not only immediate relief but lasting empowerment, ensuring that dignity, care, and opportunity remain within reach for those who need it most.
Donations and volunteer support are always welcome.

For more information, visit www.amcare.org.za or contact 011 869 5856.