Mankayane carepoint was started by a Swazi man named Pastor Sam. In this town is a large community where people are sent who have no where to go, or are cast out by their extended relatives. Pastor Sam buries people dying of AIDS on a weekly basis, and sometimes daily. There are about 15000 people living in this area, and the crime and drug rates are high. Only one child showed up today due to school exams, but normally about 100 kids show up for meals. Pastor Sam collected funds in Swaziland to build a school building which has two teachers. Once a kitchen is built he expects 200 kids to show up at this carepoint. He also believes there is a need for two more carepoints in this area to service 600 kids. We walked down a hill from the school into the village, and visited a few people who lived there. The first lady invited us to see her home and take a picture. She requested help from us so she could get her children back and have a place of her own. A lady on our team prayed with her and gave her a hug. We also took a quick visit to Pastor Sam’s church which is in the middle of a slow building process.
Next we traveled to Mpaka. This carepoint is run by a Swazi Minister and his wife who both have jobs, take care of their three kids and help run the carepoint that serves about 100 kids. The wife has a chior with the kids, and they represented her well by singing (see video). The children here had a lot of creative energy, and performed a short dance they made up for us.
Today, most of the team noticed differences between each of the carepoints. They all have unique characteristics, both wonderful and challenging. I am starting to understand the vision for the continued growth of current and future carepoints. Tomorrow after the Christmas party at a carepoint, we will have more discussion on the best way to choose a carepoint for the various team members seeking to find their connect community.
Little girl who showed up at the Mankayane carepoint after we arrived.
Little Girl at Mankayane from KnownToMe on Vimeo.
School building built with funds raised by Pastor Sam.
Woman in Mankayane who let us into her home to explain her living conditions, told us her story, and asked us for help. Four people on two beds in a 12x12ft shelter. There are a lot of boxes and things stored inside as well.
Pastor Sam is nationally influential and a teacher of pastors in Swaziland. He has great vision for his country and it’s children.
Mpaka Children Singing from KnownToMe on Vimeo.
Don with some children from Mpaka. Most of the kids here were having a lot of fun after their dinner.
Mpaka Children Dancing from KnownToMe on Vimeo.
