Mornings are cooler and shadows look different from the way they looked last month. We are aware of something in the air. Something different. For us South Africans it is the colder winter season. The pace we move at is subtly changing. We start to plan differently. Do things differently. Not in an obvious manner, but a tad different. We almost don’t notice it. It is as if we have a different rhythm. A different rhythm might be our bodies’ way to force us to notice the changes around us. If this happens within individuals it is sure to have a subtle impact on the groups the individuals are a part of. It will definitely be true for organisations like Ligstad as well. God is good for us here at Ligstad. Our changes are subtle and easily digestible. It leads to growth and development of our beloved Ligstad. Other organisations in Gauteng are less fortunate than us. Their opportunity to grow and develop through subtle changes are blocked. Dependent on subsidies from the Department of Social Development in Gauteng, they are drowning in uncertainty. No service level agreements for this financial year have been communicated to them. Many organisations does not have the funding to pay the salaries of staff. Many must close their doors. Many more people who are in need of the services rendered by these organisations will be left without access to much needed services. Pray with us for organisations and the clients who are affected by these decisions and its consequences. Ligstad is in a position where we can assist and support those affected by a seemingly hopeless situation.
Ligstad greetings
Alida Jooste –Social Worker/ Community Care Manager & Editor