OVC Cares Making a difference in the community, one child at a time…

History The Diepsloot Preschool Project is a privately funded NGO founded and managed by Patti Hanley, since the 90’s. These Preschools have no access to government funding. Patti is very passionate about what she does and to think that she does not earn a cent out of this, is truly remarkable. She relies completely on sponsorships and corporate contributions. She currently has 16 schools that she cares for OVC Johannesburg adopted three of these: – Green Pastures – Blessings Day Care – Kiddies Day Care

These preschools are set up by private families in the Diepsloot community for the children of parents who do not have the funds to place their children in government preschools or crèches. Generally, these parents will contribute a small amount of R190 per month per child to be taken care of during the day. This small amount does not cover a quarter of the cost to look after and feed these children for a day at these preschools. Sometimes the parents can’t contribute anything, so these schools run at a loss most months.

According to Patti, once these kids begin primary school, they struggle with the English language and therefore fall behind due to their lack of development. The biggest concern is the fact that these learners will not meet the minimum criteria to enter primary school and begin their schooling career. “OVC Cares” will get involved with the Grade R learners (ages 5 to 7). In total there are about 140 learners divided between the 3 schools. We will develop a curriculum to teach these young learners English, as this is the biggest challenge. Our goal is to prepare and develop these children’s skills for their schooling career. This will be the foundation for the rest of their lives. Making a difference, one child at a time!!

Making a Difference Project… OVC will approach their clients in need of additional child care experience, who are interested in the Au Pair program. They will volunteer their time to teach or assist at these schools for a period of a week. They will have a set curriculum developed by OVC with the assistance of Patti, as well as Venasha, an ex-OVC client who completed the Au Pair program and studied Early Child Development & Curriculum Building in America. Our Au Pairs gain valuable experience and knowledge, whilst giving back to the community.

What can you do? If you are interested in assisting, any learning material, stationery, blankets, clothes, food and toys will be highly appreciated. OVC will distribute these donations between the three schools from time to time. Thanking you in advance, OVC Johannesburg