By Ncaba Ntshakala
Two United States Missionaries Trace and Becky Spencer have inaugurated a state-of-the-art orphanage in Siphocosini which is designed to provide a haven for underprivileged children.
The facility, currently housing 18 children, has been lauded by the Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla as a centre of hope and a model of humanitarian effort.
According to Becky Spencer, their journey to establishing Shepherd’s Care Homes began in 2003, with what Becky Spencer describes as a divine connection.
“Back in Seattle, at a garage sale, we met missionaries who were working in Swaziland,” she recounted.
ALSO READ: DPM hands over five houses at Mtfongwaneni Inkhundla
“We felt led to support their mission, and by 2005, we felt a pull towards Eswatini. Initially, the idea seemed daunting, given the challenges associated with moving to Africa, but our faith and desire to make a difference guided us.”
In 2006, Trace and Becky visited Eswatini with their 10-year-old daughter, witnessing firsthand the dire circumstances many children faced, exacerbated by the HIV/AIDS epidemic.
They started with a sponsorship program, providing essential support like education, uniforms, and food. However, the need for a permanent solution became evident in 2014, when a young girl in their program, Angel, faced severe abuse and neglect.
“We couldn’t find a care home for her, so our board decided to build one,” Becky explained. “We raised funds and broke ground in Siphocosini in 2016, opening Shepherd’s Care Homes in April 2017 with Angel as our first resident.
Since then, we’ve expanded to two homes, now providing care for 18 children.”
Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla expressed her admiration for the Spencer’s work during a tour when she went to unveil a house for Gogo Emelina Maseko at Nkhube, under Siphocosini.
“It is truly inspiring to witness such projects that significantly aid our nation,” she said.
“As an office, we have been working closely with the Spencers and recently facilitated the placement of a child in their care.
ALSO READ: Masundvwini Council denies grabbing home from orphan
Their dedication is commendable and aligns perfectly with our efforts to support vulnerable children.”
Becky Spencer highlighted the critical role of local support in their mission. “Seeing the DPM’s excitement and support encourages us to keep going, even when faced with challenges,” she said.
“Our goal is to expand further, with plans for a primary school to meet the educational needs of the community.”
The Spencers’ work extends beyond the orphanage. Their initiative includes Little Limbs Preschool, currently educating 40 children, and support for grandmothers who care for orphaned grandchildren.
“We provide houses, toilets, beds, food, and resources for these gogos to grow their own food,” Becky said, her voice filled with emotion.
“These women have laid down their lives for their grandchildren and seeing them honored and supported is deeply moving.”
Moreover, the Spencers asserted that they are determined to continue their work, which is driven by a profound sense of purpose and community support. “
It’s pure religion and undefiled to take care of widows and children,” Becky concluded. “With the backing of local authorities and the community, we are confident that we can make an even greater impact.”
