One morning this week we tagged along with home based care (HBC) givers from Boitshoko Community Center. In 2002 three people began Boitshoko to assist the community of Tshepisong and the surrounding squatter camps (informal settlements). As they say here in SA, they have "gone from strength to strength". There have 5 divisions and have a hospice using part of their facility.
Five days a week, 14 health care workers visit with 123 home bound patients. Not every patient is seen every day. Some people are recovering from a surgery, some have AIDS, and others another chronic condition. They no longer have the funds to take food parcels. They offer encouragement, wash wounds with salt water (antiseptic is no longer available) and listen.
After visiting in one house, I had a conversation with one of the workers. "Beth", she said. "yes, Z", I answered. "No, now you are Z and I am Beth. What can you say to this woman? You can do nothing for her, yet everyday you have to come see her. It is depressing". I had no words in response.
Please pray encouragement for these care workers. Pray that the government would soon be providing what they have in the past. Pray for those who are receiving care, some getting better, some dying. Pray for the partnership we have begun with Boitshoko and 'FUGE and International World Changer teams. These Southern Baptist programs for high school and college-aged youth with mission awareness, involvement and overseas mission's trips. And ultimately people will be saved and join together as believers.
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