Happy New Year! We are thrilled to share that, thanks to your incredible generosity, we have successfully met our fundraising target of R3.8mil! Because of your giving, we received the full matched gift, which doubled the impact of your contributions. Your partnership has made a lasting impact on countless lives. Thank you once again for being a vital part of our mission.
As we step into 2025, we celebrate the incredible ways God has been at work through Living Hope over the Holiday season. Here are some highlights as we start this year full of faith and gratitude:
Life Skills Education: A Season of Growth
Our Life Skills Education (LSE) programme is thriving like never before! Since last April, we’ve experienced unprecedented growth in club attendance, with each month outpacing the last. In December, we celebrated a remarkable parenting evening at Masi Baptist Church, where 125 parents gathered—our largest turnout ever! The program continues to bring families together and transform lives, thanks to the passion of our dedicated teams.
Stories of Transformation: Randolph’s Journey
In December, Randolph, a graduate of our Recovery Programme, shared his story with grade 6 and 7 students at Capricorn Primary. Once bound by addiction and shaped by a painful past, Randolph now serves as a beacon of hope to the young and old alike. After graduating and celebrating over three years of sobriety, he faithfully returns to inspire others and share how God has changed his life. His courage and faith are a powerful reminder of what’s possible through Christ.
A “Miracle” was Born
One of the most moving stories this season is of a high-risk pregnancy client from one of our local communities. Despite facing unimaginable challenges, including the trauma of rape and financial difficulties, she gave birth to a healthy 3.5kg baby, aptly named Miracle. Through the combined efforts of our Family Strengthening, CBS, and our friends at Sweet Peas, she received the support she needed to navigate this difficult journey. We trust in God’s plans for this precious child.
Recovery Programme: Breaking Chains
At our latest Recovery Programme graduation, we celebrated eight participants, many of whom completed something for the first time in their lives. These individuals, including those with gang affiliations, shared testimonies of freedom, hope, and God’s redeeming power. It’s a privilege to witness these transformations and see new life take root.
Community Spirit in Capricorn
Following a devastating fire in December that displaced 313 people across 102 homes, the community of Capricorn came together in a remarkable display of unity. Aside from the relief supplies Living Hope provided, there was such collaboration between the various community groups and other relief organizations, including trauma counseling that have brought hope and healing.
The Farm: Rebuilding and Opportunity
After storm damage in July, as of December our farm’s shade netting has been fully restored. We’ve also offered a six-month contract to a previously graduated student, providing employment and growth opportunities as we continue to rebuild and expand.
A Growing Network of Pastors
We thank God for the 24 pastors and their wives who joined us for a Living Hope tea in December. This gathering fostered connections and led to new referrals for our Recovery Programme, further expanding our reach into the communities we serve.
Faithful Volunteers: Cooking Mamas
Our Cooking Mamas, community volunteers who tirelessly provide meals for the vulnerable without ever asking for compensation, celebrated another year of faithful service at their end-of-year party. Their joyful commitment and love for their neighbors are an ongoing inspiration.
Greater Impact Than Ever Before
From growing attendance in our programmes to remarkable individual transformations, this has been a season of abundant harvest. We are excited to see how God will continue to move in 2025 as we press on to serve and share His love.
Thank you for standing with us and for being part of this incredible journey. Together, we’re bringing hope and changing lives.
Wishing you a year filled with joy, prosperity, and continued blessings.
With heartfelt thanks,
Victor Thomas
Executive Director