AFTER more than a year of red tape, financial obstacles, and uncertainty, Aquina Cares has finally secured the title deed to the land it operates on, a major victory for the Mount Moriah community and the children who depend on the early childhood development (ECD) centre.

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Aquina Cares is supported by The Wellness Centre Trust, serving dozens of vulnerable children in the area.

Last year the ECD faced a critical turning point when the previous landowner went into business rescue.

Under the terms of the process, the land was put up for sale and without a buyer, the centre would have been forced to close.

“We couldn’t let that happen. These children rely on us for safety, education, and a nurturing environment. We had to act,” said Eloise Briggeman, founder of The Wellness Centre Trust.

The Trust, with the help of supporters, including the Victor Daitz Foundation, The Angel Network Durban and Briggeman Pty Ltd, launched a determined effort to purchase the land.

Raising the necessary funds was just one challenge. The transfer of the title deed was delayed due to a burst water pipe that resulted in a R70 000 municipal bill. Until the bill was cleared, the land couldn’t legally change hands.

Through the support of a handful of committed individuals and organisations, the funds were raised, the bill was settled, and this month the deed was finally transferred.

“This is a huge win for us. It has been quite the journey to get the title deed with Aquina Cares. It’s not just about owning land; it’s about securing a future for the kids, building a community, and investing in education and care where it’s needed most,” said Edwin Briggeman of Briggeman Pty Ltd.

Zola Kiala, founder of Aquina Cares, said she and the children feel blessed to have finally received the title deed for the creche.

“Thank you to all the sponsors and everyone involved. I am so grateful to The Wellness Centre Trust and The Angel Network Durban. This will enable the children to continue to get the love, care and education that they need,” she said.

Speaking on behalf of The Angel Network Durban, Tanya Altshuler said Aquina Cares can now continue to provide a loving, stable environment for children in the area.

“One of our main pillars is education. We believe that each child deserves a safe and loving place to learn and grow,” she said.

The majority of funds were received from the Victor Daitz Foundation and from the network’s sister branch, The Angel Network Australia.

“We are incredibly proud to be able to play our part in the growth of this very special ECD. We know how loved the children are by the incredible and dedicated teachers, and we know that the years spent at Aquina Cares will provide the best foundation for the children’s educational journey,” said Altshuler.

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