The Orphanage in Johannesburg

Rob Milne took us to the orphanage today.  This is the neighborhood it is in.

It was about an hours drive north of Johannesburg--dirt roads so we took Rob's truck.

This is Jackie who runs the place.  She was abandoned as a child so vowed that if she lived she would take abandoned and abused children in.  She has 39 at the present time.  She is 58 years old now.

They call Rob Milne, Papa Yuma.  He is giving out candy he brought for them.

Jackie was able to get them to sit down and meet us.  Most are in grade school.  Three young women--orphaned- help her with the babies and toddlers.  That's fake grass outside for them to play on.

When we arrived they were decorating their Christmas tree (a potted fern) outside.

Rob had food and supplies in his truck that the children helped carry into the house.

Most people donate used clothing and toys.  It's so crowded they need more space.

The kitchen living area needs to have tile where the rugs are.  They are so filthy.

Jackie has pictures on the wall of some of her "kids" graduating from school.

 This child was in a dumpster.  Someone heard crying and rescued him and brought him to Jackie.

The helpers smile alot.  They have been with Jackie most of their lives.  This little girl was found in a shopping bag.

This little girl wanted Bob to hold her and for me to take her picture.  Rob noticed that several of the toddlers weren't there.  They had died of AIDS.