Dullstroom Community Centre
Supporting education, empowerment, and community growth for a brighter future in Sakhelwe
Donate NowOur Impact
Every day, we're making a difference in the lives of children and families in the Sakhelwe community.
Who We Are
The Dullstroom Community Centre (DCC) is a vital after-hours facility located on the outskirts of Dullstroom, providing a safe and supportive environment for disadvantaged members of the Sakhelwe township. At the DCC, children receive assistance with their homework, access to computer skills training, warm meals, and a safe space to play.
Since its establishment in 2013, the DCC has been primarily funded by the Mackenzie Foundation, a charitable organisation with close ties to the area. The daily operations of the centre are managed entirely by Sakhelwe residents and led by Simphiwe Skhosana, a trained registered counsellor, with support from a dedicated staff team, and with additional support from Helping Hands, a local non-profit organisation deeply involved in community development.
Our Impact
The DCC has grown exponentially since its inception. Initially serving 30 children daily, it now supports between 200 and 250 children every day. Over the years, it has become a recognised community hub, playing a key role in social welfare efforts, including assisting the elderly.
Notably, during the COVID19 crisis in 2020, the DCC served as a food distribution centre, providing weekly food supplies to 150 underprivileged families. To this day, all children at the DCC receive three hot meals per week, along with sandwiches and tea twice a week. Additionally, 45 elderly residents visit the DCC to share three hot meals per week with the children.
What We Offer
- Academic Support: Homework assistance for all subjects
- Computer Skills: Access to laptops and internet for research and educational games
- Nutrition: Three hot meals per week plus sandwiches and tea two days per week
- Safe Environment: After-school and holiday programmes
- Play & Recreation: Indoor and outdoor activities including soccer, netball, chess, and arts
- Community Support: Assistance for elderly residents
- Career Guidance: Visiting speakers, tutelage and skills training
New Community Centre
Recognising the urgent need for more space, the Mackenzie Foundation pursued an opportunity to acquire a 2,000-square-metre neighbouring plot (Erf 290 Sakhelwe) to expand the centre. After extensive discussions with local authorities and community stakeholders, the land was officially transferred in July 2024 for the centre’s expansion.
While the Mackenzie Foundation has proudly funded the land acquisition, a significant portion of the development and ongoing maintenance, we recognise that collaboration is essential to bringing this vision to life. Through this fundraising initiative, we are looking for partners, donors and supporters to join us in this crucial next phase - helping to equip the centre with the resources it needs to become a vibrant hub for knowledge, growth and empowerment for generations to come.
Your support will help transform this space into a fully functional and inclusive centre which meets the diverse needs of the community.