November 2025 Newsletter
A Season of Change and Gratitude
As we approach the end of 2025, we reflect on a year of change and courage for Botshibelo Community Development Trust [BCDT]. This has been a time of deep reflection and renewal, guided, as always, by our mission to serve where the need is greatest.
As the year draws to a close, we would like to share an important change in the work of BCDT. Earlier this year, we made a difficult decision to close the village school. This decision was not made lightly, but with deep thought and care for the long-term wellbeing of our community.
From the beginning, BCDT has stepped in where the needs of our people were not being met, be it healthcare, transport, animal care, environmental education, housing, food, or education. When families were displaced, we offered shelter. When access to healthcare was limited, we helped. And when local children were receiving poor quality education, we opened a school to give them a fair start.
Sadly, over time, the costs of running the school became too heavy for us to carry. The government’s financial support has decreased drastically, covering only about one-third of the school’s expenses, leaving BCDT to fund the rest. This drew resources away from vital programs such as feeding, transport, animal outreach, drug and alcohol abuse, gender violence against the village women and children, sport, entertainment, family care, and youth development. This has been the heart of our work since the 90’s and the daily lifeline for our families.
After much consultation, we decided to return formal schooling to the government and refocus our energy on the areas that truly lift a community out of poverty: food security, youth skills, family wellness, and after-school learning support. Our team now provides after school and holiday enrichment. This includes homework, assignments and literacy assistance, teaching swimming and soccer to ensure children continue to achieve self-development, values, self-esteem, and positive core beliefs for their journey into adulthood.
While closing the school was deeply painful for our staff, teachers, and children, it became clear that this change was necessary. Earlier this year, the education department itself admitted to severe financial difficulties and uncertainty about future subsidies. This forced us to make the responsible choice for the health of the village and BCDT’s sustainability.
Thankfully, all our students were placed in local schools, though transport remains a daily challenge. BCDT ensures that children still get to school safely, and most government schools now provide meals and uniforms. Sadly, the quality of education in these schools is still poor, with incomplete curriculums, long teacher absences, and inflated marks that do not reflect true learning. Yet, for many children, school remains a place of safety and nourishment, and we continue to support them in every way possible. It is a sad trade-off for children living in poverty.
The positive outcome is that funds once stretched across too many areas can now strengthen our core mission. BCDT still has a backlog of accounts and stipends owing to the school, which is being addressed. Other monies go to the feeding programme, poverty village, poverty campus, other extramural activities, animal care, and Containers of Hope projects continue with renewed focus and stability. Our daily work remains full, from managing gardens, laundry, caring for the elderly, feeding schemes, emergency food, and supporting young children, then followed by after school enrichment and youth training.
The youth are now involved in practical skills training such as massage therapy, repairs of appliances, and animal husbandry. Wescol [had previously opened in Magaliesburg] a vocational and technical training college, has decided to reopen in Magaliesburg in 2026. Despite limited job opportunities for the youth upon completion, they do offer stipends that help trainees to survive while studying.
A Foundation of Hope, Love, and Safety
Every day at Botshibelo, we dedicate ourselves to nurturing a strong foundation built on hope, love, and safety. This commitment is at the heart of who we are and what we stand for, providing an environment where every individual feels valued and secure. Our daily actions, whether offering care, support, or enrichment, are guided by the essence of family. Through these efforts, we strive to foster a sense of belonging and resilience, ensuring that the spirit of togetherness remains the cornerstone of our community.
We are deeply grateful for your support over the years, through all the seasons of this journey. Your generosity has made it possible for hundreds of children and families to live with dignity, safety, and hope. We ask you to continue standing with us as we invest in their futures, with food, education support, skills training, transport, gardens, clothing, toiletries, birthdays, and holiday activities.
How You Can Support Our Community This Christmas
As we approach the holiday season, we invite you to help make this Christmas a truly memorable and joyful time for everyone in our community. Your support can bring warmth, comfort, and a sense of celebration to families and children who need it most.
Ways to Contribute
Tents for Christmas Camping: Your donation of tents will allow us to host our traditional Christmas camping experience, bringing children and families together for a special celebration under the stars.
Food: Mealie meal, rice, soya, vegetables
Christmas Presents: Gifts make the holiday season magical for our children. We especially appreciate donations for cellphones, a cherished tradition each Christmas that brings immense joy and connection to our youth.
Blankets and Mattresses: Help us ensure everyone stays warm and comfortable during the festive season by providing blankets and mattresses for those in need.
Clothes and Shoes: New or gently used clothing and footwear are always needed, helping children and families feel cared for and confident as they start the new year.
Dog and Cat Food: Supporting our animal outreach program, donations of dog and cat food help us care for the beloved pets in our community.
Your generosity this Christmas will create lasting memories and ensure the holiday is a time of togetherness and celebration for all. Thank you for considering a contribution and helping us spread hope and happiness this festive season.
Thank you for believing in this work.
May this festive season bring peace to your heart and joy to your homes.
With deep gratitude,
Your Botshibelo Family