Mt Horeb Care Center uplifts Barberton’s youth

The Mt Horeb Care Center is quietly making a meaningful difference in the lives of young people in Barberton, particularly in the Katanga and Kathyville communities, by offering daily academic support, meals, and a safe environment for children in need.

Managed by Aubie Deetlefs, the centre was officially registered as a non-profit organisation on October 6, 2022 and has since grown into a vital support system for local families.

Operating from the facilities of the Mt Horeb Church at the corner of Sastri and Madras Streets, Barberton, the center provides after-school assistance from Monday to Friday to learners from Grade R to Grade 8. The service is offered free of charge and is open to children of all backgrounds.

At its core, the centre aims to improve academic performance by assisting learners with their daily homework, offering focused support in subjects such as Afrikaans and Mathematics, and teaching essential study skills. Where additional help is needed, subject specialists are brought in to support learners further.

Besides focussing on academics, the centre recognises the challenges many children face at home. A daily meal is prepared and served after school, ensuring that learners receive basic nutrition before beginning their afternoon studies. Meals are made possible through a combination of staple food purchases and generous donations from members of the Barberton community.

Children attending the centre are supervised for approximately one and a half hours each afternoon, receiving guidance with their schoolwork in a structured and supportive environment. Stationery is also provided for use during study sessions, and learners are assisted with research and school projects when needed.

According to Aubie, the Care Center’s vision is to establish a high-standard aftercare and study facility where parents can confidently entrust their children, knowing they are receiving both academic support and social care.

“Our mission extends beyond the classroom, aiming to help shape confident, capable young individuals who can become the leaders of tomorrow”.

A team of dedicated youth workers plays a key role in achieving this vision. The centre currently utilises the services of several trained and experienced individuals who assist in managing daily activities and supporting learners.

In addition to academic support, the centre offers a range of developmental and recreational activities. These include dance classes, music lessons such as guitar, and sports like volleyball. Plans are also in place to expand sporting opportunities, including tennis and netball, once local facilities are restored.

Fridays are dedicated to life skills and character-building sessions, where learners are guided through values-based teachings and personal development discussions. While these sessions are rooted in faith-based principles, they also focus broadly on discipline, respect, and responsible decision-making.

The centre has hosted a number of community-focused initiatives, including Youth Day celebrations featuring motivational speakers, as well as outreach programs providing clothing and essential items. Notably, young girls have benefited from educational sessions on feminine hygiene, along with the distribution of dignity packs. Additional programs include a reading development initiative and ballet classes for girls, with transport arranged through sponsorship support.

Despite its progress, the Care Center continues to rely heavily on community involvement and support to sustain and expand its services. "We are thankful for the continuous support of various individuals and businesses since we started with the care centre. Without their support we would not be able to care for the children," Aubie said.

Residents who wish to contribute or learn more about the initiative can contact Aubie Deetlefs directly. Contact Details: Mt Horeb Care Center; NPO Registration No: 283-268; Aubie Deetlefs – 082 535 2677 or email her at carecenter.mh7@gmail.com

“Work in Excellence for God’s Glory and a Bright Future.”

What the Mt Horeb Care Center still needs

Equipment and infrastructure
• Computers (2)
• Cadac gas cylinder and 2-burner gas stove (with pipe and regulator)
• Fencing for tennis courts, cement for surface repairs and weedkiller
• Shade netting for play area (3 x 50m, 80% shade)
• Toilet cistern systems (2)
• Large dustbins (2)
• Fans (3) and extension cords (3)
• 20-litre urn
• Large fluorescent lights (6)
• Vacuum cleaner

Sports and recreational equipment
• Cricket sets (2)
• Soccer balls (3)
• Tennis rackets (10) and tennis balls
• Portable soccer goal posts
• Bongo drum set (JD Percussion 6" and 7")
• Guitars (2)
• Keyboard (1)

Learning and stationery supplies
• Photocopy paper
• Stationery including glue, pens, pencils, erasers, rulers, paint, staples, coloured project paper and clay
• Printer toner or ink

Kitchen and food supplies
• Plates, cups and spoons for 50 children
• Food donations including meat, fresh fruit and vegetables
• Staples such as margarine, milk, pasta, coffee, tea, cocoa, sweets and snacks

Children’s items and winter needs
• Carpets for toddlers (2)
• Gas heaters (2)
• Blankets and pillows
• Toys and Lego

Operational and support needs
• Monthly stipends of R1 000 for seven voluntary youth workers
• Funds for prepaid electricity

Hygiene and cleaning supplies
• Toiletries including toothpaste, shampoo, bath soap, sanitary towels and hand towels
• Cleaning products such as hand wash soap, dishwashing liquid, pot scourers, dish cloths, Pinegel, Jik, toilet cleaner, toilet paper, refuse bags and sandwich bags

Medical supplies
• First aid items and a fully stocked kit