Community United at Summer Hill House

Life is how you look at it...

We don't build houses, we build families

We don't care for orphans, we care for children

We don't reach for glory, we reach for hands

We don't just fill stomachs, we fill hearts

We don't ask for help, we ask for hope

Summerhill House was founded 15 years ago by Paula Owen and Esther Lynn. Their purpose and their goal is to create a lifeline, a home for those that want one, a family for those that need one. "Because ours is a place where laughter is heard."

"In terms of our function, Summerhill has two arms." Says their new marketing and fundraising person, Leigh Roberts, "We offer cluster care family living in two homes in our village in Etete, to 13 children. We also have community initiatives that run from our community centre such as education, reading and homework assistance. As well as school holiday feeding for children, while they aren't having a meal at school, sports, crisis family care and food parcels and social care in the form of weekly assistance with documentation at home affairs so that families can apply for grants and school registration."

A small team of 13 people work together to make Summerhill House a success, which would not be possible without the hard work and dedication of their amazing team of staff, who are constantly fighting for and caring for the needs of children and community members. Though a small team, everyone has an important and vital role to play. Paula, who is the managing Director of Summerhill House, oversees the general running and managing of the establishment. Esther manages the Community initiatives and Zodwa is a mother to five of the babies who presently reside in the homes.

"Working at Summerhill House is truly a rewarding experience", Leigh told The Bugle, "Being a part of a team that is making such a difference in our community and having lots of fun while we do it, is what makes being here magical. There is always creativity, determination, integrity and willingness to serve in the office, in our village and in our community."

"There is so much genuine love, kindness and care here. One can only be changed and challenged working here. Its wonderful for life to be about far more than just ourselves."

Summerhill is a safe place within the Etete community with a huge heart.

While the team works vigorously to meet all the challenges, their greatest need is for financial donations in order to continue to provide the community with adequate support. Funds are needed for staff to be paid and for the children's educational needs to be covered and to continue the building of houses three and four.

"We so appreciate all the food, clothing, nappies, formula and toy donations that have come in over the last two months and all the people who come to visit us and help. We are a registered NPO and we have our section 18a Tax Certification. We are very willing to meet potential donors at Summerhill House and take them on a tour of our village and community centre under careful Covid protocols." Concluded Leigh.

If you would like to help Summer Hill House Please email Leigh fundraiser@summerhh.org.za or call her on 083 231 8918.