When you drive into Middelburg from the direction of eMalahleni, there are houses on the right.
Years ago, this was the Albert Herbst Children’s Home, which belonged to the Reformed Church of South Africa.
Daan Walker was the head.
When it was announced that the children’s home was closing, there was great unhappiness.
What about the children?
“They would be placed in homes all over the country.”
Brothers and sisters scattered.
A few of the beautiful promises came true.
A heartbreaking story.
Out of the sadness, 21 years ago, the Middelburg Care Village arose.
An occasion that was celebrated with a gala evening.
The houses that stand almost unnoticed by the side of the road now house 108 children.
Children who are fed, clothed, and cared for every day.
Andre Brandmuller, who is the driving force behind the Care Village, said during the gala evening that in 21 years, the children have never gone to bed hungry.
Every parent will know; what is it like to raise two children?
And four?
And six?
And 108?
No wonder Mr Brandmuller said there was a stage when he wanted to throw in the towel.
To make the budget fit, all kinds of plans are made.
All for the sake of the children.
Part of the plans are the Care Riders.
A group of cyclists who will celebrate their 10th birthday on November 1 during the Tour de Farm, and who dare to challenge the gruelling Munga mountain bike race to raise money for the children’s education.
The Munga is presented in the first week of December and covers approximately 1 200km.
The Care Riders will attempt to raise R500 000.
They are also currently involved in a fierce duel with the VlokSkop Foundation to see who can cover the most kilometres before the end of September.
To find out more about the Care Riders or to get involved with the Care Village, contact Andre Cloete on 083 397 2138 or Leigh Brandmuller on 082 800 2255.
Two fish and five loaves of bread – Andre Brandmuller talks about how God has provided for the children of Care Village. Watch the video by clicking on the following link:
