March 28, 2005

by Daniel,
DFL Volunteer

A while ago , DFL went on another monthly food delivery to the orphan centers Mthaleni, Esifuleni, and Wasbank. The day before the sky had been covered with dark clouds. A bad rain storm blew through sending little rivers running down the sides of the road. Although the rain was needed we prayed that it would not hinder the job set before us.

The day started early in the morning as the lorry pulled into the parking lot of the food wholesalers. Six large carts stacked high with food were waiting for us as we walked in. After checking through the list to ensure everything was there the food was paid for and loaded. We made one more stop to pick up perishables such as some fruits and vegetables and then were off to the centers.

A little over an hour later we turned onto the dirt road that led to our first destination- Mthaleni. We were pleased to see that the condition of the road was drivable, but bumpy as usual! It is a common sight to see a DFL vehicle making its way through those hills and we got many friendly smiles and waves especially from the small children. We pulled into the center and unloaded their portion of the food. The adults and children were both very grateful. The lorry’s next stop was Esifuleni and as we got closer two of the orphan boys spotted the lorry and started to run along side. Not only must it be exciting to see such a large vehicle coming down their road but also they knew that it was food for them. They knew they wouldn’t go hungry. Our final stop for the day was Wasbank and everyone there wanted to unload the last of the food. It was nice to see how eager even the smallest children were to help.

These food deliveries are not just about bringing food but bringing support. It is so the hurting communities know they are not forgotten but people are here to stand with them. It is so the grandmothers, who have had the heartache of nursing their children as they slowly die of AIDS and now are faced with raising their grandchildren, know they are not left to do it alone. Through the day we saw God’s hand of provision and His love for these people and it is a honor to be apart of God’s work.

Doctors for Life International represents more than 1000 medical doctors and specialists, three-quarters of who practice in South Africa. DFL was founded as a South African organization in 1991 and has spread across the globe. DFL is involved in several community projects including orphan care, the care of terminal AIDS patients, malaria prevention and the care of abused women.

For more information visit the Life-Child web-page