What once started as a dream on paper has grown into a safe haven for countless children. In this overview, we take you through the key milestones of our organization, from the founding of the Trust, the vision being born, to the thriving community we are today.
The Rehoboth Trust (RT) was founded in 1997, but it took several years before the Vision to care for vulnerable children was born in 1999 by Johan and Nel Knol. The year 2000 marked a major turning point with the signing of the property contract and the official opening day in 2001. Shortly after, the property was fully paid off, and the first housemothers started caring for vulnerable children. From late 2001, Alfons and Yvonne van der Galien took over leadership to further shape the Vision and Mission.
The following years focused on growing care needs. Construction of a Crèche began and the Jabulani Child Sponsorship Program was launched. Medical care became a priority with the start of private and government treatments for the children. By 2005, six houses were operating at full capacity, and the organization was officially registered as a children’s home. Steps were also taken towards sustainability with the planting of hundreds of macadamia trees.
With the opening of renovated accommodations for staff and volunteers, and new children’s houses, the care capacity grew steadily as well. In 2010, the Khulani House in town opened for the teenage boys and the first building phase was completed with 10 children’s houses in the village. With over fifty children in our care, we received approval for the second building phase, for which ground was broken also in 2010.
Besides housing, the focus shifted increasingly to education and some form of self-sufficiency. Plans were made for a water bottling plant, and a new food distribution center opened its doors. Home schooling was introduced and the oldest boys started gaining work experience. The opening of the Silverstream Education Centre and a brand-new Office building in 2014, crowned the work, while the macadamia trees yielded their first profit.
From 2016 onwards, we saw the fruits of years of investment in the children. The first young person left Rehoboth to live independently and later a young adult started university studies. A Chapel and a Multi-sports facility hall were also established. Specific housing was realized for teenagers to prepare them for an independent future, bringing the full circle of care into reality. Our history shows what can be achieved together, but mainly by God’s provision and His guidance. However, our work is not done. So, help us offer a hopeful future to even more children by getting involved today.
Build the future
