Donations sought so Robyn can continue her life-changing work

A CHARITY helping to educate and feed up to 1000 children in Africa is calling for donations so its Ocean Grove creator can continue her life-changing work.

Local Robyn Casey started the Mphatso (pronounced ma-par-t-so) Children’s Foundation, a not-for-profit charity registered in Ocean Grove and an NGO in Malawi, when she moved there back in 2004.

But Robyn’s current Temporary Employment Permit will expire this October and no more extensions are allowed.

Therefore, in order for Robyn to continue her work in Malawi, she is applying for a Permanent Residence Permit, which will cost $18,000.

To date, the Mphatso Children’s Foundation has raised about $3,000, and president Meegan Rokesky said they were seeking everyone’s help to make this happen, as it was very expensive.

“Any financial assistance you can provide is greatly appreciated,” she said.

Lynelle Day, a supporter of the foundation, said Robyn was an amazing lady.

“The help she gives to babies, children and adults where she works is miraculous,” Lynelle said.

“We all love this lady and want her to continue her life’s work.”

Back in 2002, Robyn visited Malawi as part of a church mission trip and was challenged by the poverty and societal conditions, but amazed by the warmth and resilience of the local people.

So, in 2004, she moved to the Nkhata Bay District of Malawi and began a small nursery school (kindergarten) to provide children with a nutritious meal and a pre-school education.

Nearly 17 years later, the foundation operates 13 nursery schools and feeds up to 1,000 children a bowl of porridge each school day.

Children are taught by local qualified teachers and cooks are employed to prepare the porridge.

There is a baby feeding program to provide baby formula to underweight babies or when the mother has passed away during childbirth.

Meegan said the Mphatso Children’s Foundation’s mission was to “Feed the Children”, “Grow the Community” and “Impact the Future”.

“Mphatso provides a fun and safe environment in which children can play – toys, balls, volleyball equipment, dress-ups, books, pencils and paper are used almost daily by children after school,” Meegan said.

“The foundation also provides sporting equipment and sponsorship to local football and tennis teams.”

To donate, visit mphatso.org.