Barnswallows looks to soar to new heights
WELTEVREDEN PARK – Barnswallows, a non-profit organisation has big plans to expand its influence in the community.
Barnswallows once again embarks on a new phase in its seven-year journey.
The Weltevreden Park-based non-profit organisation opened its doors in 2009 to abandoned babies and children. The home saw nearly 40 babies pass through its doors before the home stopped taking in children 18 months ago.
However, under the name of Barnswallows, two years ago the Swift Academy was established to care for and teach special needs children.
Founder of Barnswallows, René Testa, explained one in every 48 children is on the special needs spectrum and she believes that a good diet and change in lifestyle can help a child overcome any obstacle.
Testa’s heart has always been with children. In the late 70s she entered into children’s education and became a nursery school teacher and has a master’s degree in counselling. In 2003, her life took a turn and she realised that she needed to do something meaningful with her life.
To continue the work she is doing next year, Testa plans to convert her garage into a learning centre for the academy but she hopes to obtain a land for Barnswallows.
She is currently in communication with the Department of Education to secure a plot of land in Weltevreden Park on which she can continue with the academy and re-open the home for abandoned children and babies. However, to date, she has received little acknowledgement about her inquiry.
Ward 89 councillor Amelia Bester said the plot appears to be owned by the Department of Education but education is not a local government issue, so she is unable to help further.
Barnswallows is currently in need of anyone who can help with the renovations of the garage, to make and install wooden shelving, supply furniture, paint, or even the basics such printer paper. An extensive wish list is available on the Barnswallows’ website.
Details: Barnswallows 011 475 2318.
