Malvern Children’s Home Faces R1 Million Utility Crisis – Urgent Call for Community Support

Malvern Child and Youth Care Centre (Malvern Children’s Home), a long-standing programme of KZN Christian Social Services, is issuing an urgent appeal to the public as its municipal water and electricity bill with eThekwini Municipality has ballooned to close to R1 million. Without immediate intervention, the home fears its ability to provide a safe haven for vulnerable children may be compromised.

Founded in 1964, the Malvern Child and Youth Care Centre has opened its doors to children aged 2 to 18 who have been orphaned, abandoned, abused, or neglected. It has stood as a place of safety, love, and hope for countless young lives who had nowhere else to turn. Today, with around 80 children in its care, the very future of this vital sanctuary hangs in the balance.

“Currently our eThekwini Municipality bill stands at R977,000. Although we have a payment agreement in place, inconsistent subsidies and soaring monthly bills based on high estimates make it very difficult to keep up with arrears, interest, and ongoing charges. Settling this debt would help us avoid disconnections and allow us to channel more funds towards our children’s basic needs, such as food, clothing, healthcare, and school transport,” says Director Andile Ncamana.

He adds, “Our children have already endured loss and hardship. They should never have to face the fear of losing their home because of an unpaid bill. We are appealing to every South African - individuals, businesses, faith groups, and communities - to help us keep the lights on and the water running.”

Every contribution, big or small, will make a tangible difference in ensuring that the home can continue to provide shelter, meals, schooling, and the stability these children deserve.

“If this centre no longer exists, our children may end up on the streets. These are South Africa’s children, not only our children, and we want them to become upstanding adults later in life,” adds Ncamana.

Payments can be made directly into the Malvern Children's Home’s account at eThekwini Municipality, using the account number as the reference: 71573300136

Alternatively, donations can be made securely and transparently via the Home’s official BackaBuddy page: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/shine-a-light-on-malvern-childrens-home