Reaching out and Giving Back
This year has brought us countless surprises. The first surprise was from the Minnesota SCI Chapter President. He delivered donations from local chapter members, filling one entire blue bag. This effort continued to grow at the Minnesota SCI show in February. By the end of the SCI show in Brooklyn Park, MN, we had two full bags of donations to transport to South Africa.
As the months passed, Jeff and I prepared to deliver the gifts ourselves and to bring along Jeff’s dad, Dennis Goulet, for his first visit to South Africa at the remarkable age of 81. He was captivated by the country’s sweeping landscapes and the warm hospitality of Dream Team Safaris, which thoughtfully adapted the hunt to his age and mobility.
His heart overflowed as the blue bags that once rested in his home transformed into a day of generous giving. With donations arriving right up until our departure, we were able to fill four additional shopping carts with supplies for the orphanage by shopping locally—nearly everything on their wish list was purchased.
I will never forget watching my father-in-law unload the jam-packed vehicle and place love gifts into eager little arms that reached out, proudly declaring, “I’m strong—I’ll take more!” The children and directors were filled with joy and sincere gratitude. The clothing and supplies met urgent needs, and the teddy bears were an unexpected delight. Helen, the orphanage director, smiled and said, “The teddy bears are beautiful, and the children will love all the gifts. ” It was a moment that made me pause in awe at how far this project had come.
During our visit we toured the orphanage and witnessed the exceptional care the children receive. As Helen told us, “It is amazing when you give a child love. Their arms open wide to receive it.”
Later, we sat down with Helen and Eddy, the finance director, to gain a better understanding of the center’s challenges. When the South African government stopped funding orphanages, 150 facilities were forced to close, displacing countless children. But Helen stood firm at Môrester Child and Youth Care Centre. She vowed that no child in her care would ever be returned to the streets. Each day she prays over the children, believing some people share her compassion.
Their current need is a bus to transport children to and from school. One of the children is waiting to have two surgeries and the orphanage could use some much-needed updates.
Môrester’s mission is clear: to serve these children and youths so they can grow into well-adapted, joyful members of the community. With Helen’s unwavering commitment and the support of caring people, no child will be left without love or a safe home.
As we move forward, we are committed to supporting Helen in her mission and establish we have our own foundation to provide direct support for the Môrester Child and Youth Care Centre. A heartfelt thank-you to everyone who contributed to this effort. Together we are making a difference.
If you would like to join us and help meet the orphanage’s most pressing needs, please consider a donation to “Goulet Cares Project.”
