Thembiso started in February 2007 out of a desire by both Doxa Deo Langeberg and Durbanville Baptist Churches to make a difference in the lives of children with special needs. This joint venture between the two churches falls under the guidance of the uMephi organisation (the Child Welfare arm of the AFM church in South Africa). uMephi has been operating in South Africa for 70 years and runs or supports over 70 projects ranging from Special Needs Homes for babies and children to Community Foster Care Homes for orphans. Up to date (July 09) we have seen 68 babies move through Thembiso. They either received forever parents or where placed into foster care. The house itself has been provided by uMephi while the monthly running expenses and all other needs including salaries and improvements to the property are met from various sources including regular and once off donations (in cash, kind and services) from church members and other people in the community as well as from companies. In addition a small amount is received per child from social welfare and overseas adoptions. While uMephi covers any shortfall in the monthly running expenses of the house it is our vision, and uMephi’s expectation, to become self sufficient so that uMephi’s funds can be released to help start similar projects in other areas. The finances are managed by Doxa Deo and audited by Van Niekerk & Roos (Chartered Accountants).