Overlooking the Valley of 1000 Hills, Jacob House is a modern comfortable four-bedroom home headed by married couple Alan and Portia Weyers. They have embraced six children, ranging from ages 9 to 17, into the home and are determined to provide a warm family life based on a foundation of love and strong values with honesty and respect being foundational pillars. The couple have fostered children in the past and were involved with Childline as volunteers. In this capacity they headed the training of other volunteers and also ran a safe house.

“Portia and I have so much to give,” said Alan. “Through this wonderful donation we now have the opportunity to make a difference in six lives. It is God’s plan for us.”

Established in 2003 by retired Durban businessman, Danie van den Heever, iThemba has already enjoyed incredible growth. The original vision has expanded due to support from abroad and locally and the 40 acre campus now also houses an independent school, the iThemba Academy.

“What differentiates iThemba from other foster care systems is the level of commitment to the children in terms of care, education, life skills and opportunity,” explained Danie. “The community is encouraged and welcome to visit us and see first hand how we aim to restore hope in people’s lives.”

It is inspiring to know that a further six children have found a haven for hope in Hillcrest where brighter futures are a priority.