CSS Partnering with the community
Seed of Hope began in j
ust one room of a disused building on the rural outskirts of Durban. In 2003, the founders and a small core of volunteers felt the need to respond to the Aids crisis and its impact on families in KwaZulu-Natal. At that time, the HIV pandemic was unchecked, as anti-retroviral medications were not yet widely available. They launched an afternoon drop-in program for children who would otherwise be unattended and at risk of drifting into mischief, gangs or other dangerous behaviour. The classes were fun, teaching games, songs, crafts, and life skills. Soon dozens of children were attending daily and the program had been given a name – Simunye Time.
Simunye means “we are one” in isiZulu
Seed of Hope has recognized the power of collaborating with local community members, equipping them to overcome challenges and create a promising future. CSS recognised the true spirit of Simunye and have partnered with Seed of Hope and the community on various projects over the past couple of years. Just some of these being:
- Upgrade to the Children’s Playground
- New Toilet Facilities
- Supply of Computer & Network Equipment
- New Sewing Skills Training Room
“Simunye – We are One …”