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Introduction to our home
St Joseph's House for Boys
March 01, 2010

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Historical Note

From a resolution of the synod of the Anglican Church adopted in 1936, sprang the ideals and objectives of the non- denominational St. Josephs House for Boys which we know today. Regrettably, many children in the world do not have the privilege of a safe and happy home. Many are orphaned, destitute, abandoned abused, exposed to domestic violence and desperately in need of shelter, food and education. It is the objective of St. Josephs to provide a promising future to these unfortunate Boys.

From modest beginnings in the Deanery in Salisbury, the number of boys accommodated has increased over the years and the House moved twice to larger quarters before being established at its present location in Denbigh Avenue, Belvedere, Harare in April 1953. There are currently 55 Boys who regard the House as home. The prime objective of the Board of Governors and the staff is to see that the boys are assisted in learning and attaining habits of obedience, reverence, discipline, self respect and all that tends to make them good and useful citizens of Zimbabwe in a homely environment.

Funding

The Home functions by way of 10 members of staff, under the guidance and control of a voluntary Board of Governors, who set the principles, deal with matters of discipline and raise funds. Above all the Governors are concerned with the welfare of the children under their care. The children need to be fed, clothed and educated. A social welfare grant is received for some of the children, but this is totally inadequate to feed a child in the current environment in the country. In addition there is need to provide clothing, school fees and the general upkeep of the House. Generous donors, benefactors, legacies, bequests, fund raising activities and years of devoted work and service by many people have enabled the Home to maintain a high standard of care. Special mention should be made of the many friends of St. Josephs who have contributed immensely towards the well being of the Boys.

The funds which have been donated are invested prudently by Trustees of St. Josephs Trust, providing for current expenditure and development costs from the income earned.

How you can help

The major challenge we face is that of raising income for the care of the Boys. Contributions in cash or in kind are most welcome. These could be in the form of food, clothing, fuel, cutlery, plates, crockery, linen, adopting or sponsoring a Boy, entertainment etc. Taking the Boys out, visiting them, and availing yourself to spend time with the Boys are also means by which you can make a difference. All that we at St. Josephs ask for is that we are remembered when the time comes to judge worthy causes. On our part we guarantee that your contribution, whether in cash or kind, will gratefully be received and used wisely and with integrity.

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