Boxes are being packed, labelled and stacked as the Matthew 25 Project prepares to move from its Rynfield property to scenic Marister.

At the end of April, the children’s home will trade the hustle and bustle of President Brand Road for the peace and quiet of plot living.

“For the past four years, our home has been a place of nurturing care, love and healing, but this chapter has, unfortunately, come to an end,” said founder Carol Foster.

“The property has been sold for development. This home has been a place of safety for our kids, and we are going to miss our time spent here, but an exciting new adventure awaits.”

With a smile, some of the organisation’s younger residents skip towards Carol, wrapping their arms around her for a pre-lunch cuddle.

After placing a kiss on their foreheads, Carol continues by saying that the move forms part of the organisation’s vision of expanding its facilities to accommodate more children in need.

“The property that we are moving to will allow us to increase capacity to 18 children, but the upcoming move will also be temporary,” she said, a smile flashing across her face.

“Late last year, we were approached by a member of the community, who wished to remain anonymous, who is graciously making another Marister plot available to us to fulfil our dream of creating a dedicated Matthew 25 Project Children’s Village.”

She explains that future fundraising initiatives, as well as sales from the charity shop, will contribute to the development of 10 homes to accommodate house mothers and 10 children each, as well as expanding the on-site school.

“Once complete, we hope to be able to offer a safe haven for 60 children, focusing on creating a homely environment where they can heal from the wounds of abuse and neglect,” she said.

“We believe moving to the serenity of the agricultural holdings and creating opportunities for the children to interact with nature will have a profound impact on their emotional well-being.

“Our prayers have been answered in the most miraculous way. We are grateful for the generosity of the kind donor.”

Before the moving trucks whirl into action, Carol and her team are turning their attention to the Matthew 25 Project Charity Shop, which will open its doors at 24 O’Reilly Merry Street on April 1.

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Willing hands needed

Relocating is stressful, and in an effort to shield their children from the pending upheaval, the Matthew 25 Project team are calling on community support.

“Arrangements have been made to have our wooden cabins moved and reassembled at our new home. We will need assistance in moving furniture and large appliances,” said Carol.

“We also need help in packing and transporting boxes containing our children’s prized earthly possessions.”

Anyone willing to assist may call 083 327 6415.

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