What a phenomenal week it has been at the Mosaic Community Development site in Ikageng, Potchefstroom. In what felt like a spiritual explosion—an atomic bomb of transformation—23 foster families embarked on the journey of a lifetime.

On October 6, these families began their participation in the Healing Hearts Training Camp, a life-changing programme brought to South Africa by Vessels of Mercy, a small welfare organisation in Potchefstroom. The organisation, founded and run by social worker and foster parent Susan Fouché, is dedicated to reaching, supporting, and empowering foster families across the region.
The Healing Hearts Training Camp is the organisation’s newest initiative—an intensive therapeutic programme designed to help foster parents and their children heal from deep emotional wounds and learn to “soar like eagles.”

The programme was originally pioneered by Nancy Thomas in California in 2000. Thomas, a therapeutic parenting specialist with more than 40 years of experience in the United States, worked extensively with some of the most violent and traumatised children in the foster care system. Through her research-based techniques, most of these children recovered and grew into respectful, responsible adults.

In July 2023, Susan Fouché met Nancy Thomas and attended her first Healing Hearts Camp in Rochester, New York. The children at that camp were described as violent, aggressive, sexualised, and angry. One boy, who had previously assaulted his foster mother, was awaiting trial. Yet, the camp provided a safe, structured environment where both parents and children could begin to rebuild trust and connection.

“The Healing Hearts Camp offers not only a chance for family bonding,” says Fouché, “but also a pathway to healing for children who have endured severe trauma.”

One Ikageng foster mother shared her experience: “I learned how to treat my child and to respect their feelings. I also learned how to take control of my home again, to help my kids trust me and feel safe with me.”

A 17-year-old participant reflected: “I learned so many things I didn’t even know were possible. I also wish other families could experience what we did at this camp. It was really worth it.”

The techniques and activities used in the Healing Hearts programme are rooted in the concept of neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to rewire itself. When children experience prolonged trauma, their neural pathways can become maladaptive, but with the right support and experiences, those pathways can be repaired. The Healing Hearts programme is not only for traumatised children; it strengthens entire families by fostering trust, communication, and emotional connection.

The next Healing Hearts Camp will be held from April 30 to May 3, 2026, at Limerick Lodge, just outside Potchefstroom. For bookings, email webmaster@vessels.org.za. For enquiries, contact Lizelle on 082 493 8965.