St Monica's entered the new year with nothing but hope for a better futurefor our children. Taking impetus from the previous years, we embarked on numerous activities to ensure that regardless of the challenges of our time, we remain true to our commitment to provide a nuturing and protected environment for the children in our care.

The upskilling of staff was one of our focus areas during the course of the year. Child-care workers were offered training to complete their modules and attain an NQF4 qualification. The upgrade to our cottages, which included painting and refurbishing made possible by our generous donors, has assisted in creating a warm and comfortable space for children to enjoy.

We are grateful to have pulled through some of the biggest challenges we faced this year which included the hijacking of our Quantum that was ultimately written off. We thank God that our children and the driver escaped unharmed. A secondhand Quantum was purchased with the assistance of a donor. This is captured in our report. Despite our own difficulties, St Monica's managed to reach out to other organisations in the area and donated clothing and non-perishable food items when there was a surplus.

We are grateful for the generous support we receive from our funders, donors, and the broader community. Thank you for your confidence in our organisation. Without you, it would be impossible to fulfill our cause.

On behalf of the board of management, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the staff for their unwavering commitment to their work and the organisation at large. They continue to meet the expectations set out for their job. I commend their hard work and dedication.

A special thank you goes to the director for her admirable tenacity to professionally run the home. I am proud of the fact that you have the power to vanquish any situation and deliver the best results no matter the circumstances, well done and keep up the good work!

I would like to thank the board members who tirelessly give their time, knowledge, and insights to ensure that the Home runs smoothly. A special thanks is expressed to the new board members who joined us last year for the way in which they adapted to their role and for the competences and capabilities they have brought to the functioning of the Home. Thank you all for your time and commitment to the Home, your contribution is making a difference in the life of St Monica's. This year we bid farewell to Revd. Dr. Buthelezi who due to increased workload in his circular employment resigned from the board. We are grateful for his contribution during his time with us and wish him well.

As I pen down this report, reflecting on my tenure as the chairperson and a member of the board of management of St Monica's Children's Home, I am humbled by the support I received from the entire board and management. Thank you for being the great team that you are.

May God bless you!