Child Sponsorship Background from Nelspruit, South Africa

SOS Children's Village Nelspruit

The local authorities have been facing more and more problems due to the ever-increasing number of child-headed households and, therefore, establishment of an SOS Children's Village in the region has been highly appreciated by the community. SOS Children's Village Nelspruit is situated in Kamagugu and its architecture reflects the "Solid, Modest and Integrated" approach: The family houses resemble the local building style and fit seamlessly into the neighbourhood.

SOS Children's Village Nelspruit comprises ten family houses, an administration and service area, a workshop, a community building and houses for the village director and the SOS aunts (who support the SOS mothers and take care of the children when the mothers are on leave). Up to 100 children can find a new home in the ten family houses.

Other SOS Projects in Nelspruit

The adjoining SOS Nursery consists of two group rooms and a playground and has a capacity to take in up to 50 children. Children from both the SOS Children's Village and the local community attend the SOS Nursery together, which greatly supports their integration and mutual understanding. Since January 2003, an SOS Social Centre has been co-ordinating an HIV/AIDS community-based child care and support programme. HIV/AIDS affected families receive material and medical support, education and counselling and they are supported with income generating activities. Moreover, HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention campaigns are organised.

Background to Nelspruit

Nelspruit has a population approaching 250,000.  It is about 205 miles east of Johannesburg, and lies on the Crocodile River.  Officially, its name is now Mbombela, but it will take time for this to be in common usage.