Destroyed by fire, rebuilt by charity: Harrington House for Children, a community success story

Two years later, Mrs. Barrett's House has been rebuilt and the household belongings replaced through the generosity of volunteers, Alastair Rendall and Tony Dallas, and neighbour, Ashton Hayes, who raised the sponsorship and donations required and project managed the entire rebuild of the house.

The only item still needed is a gas stove and oven to cook for the 14 children. As part of our Mandela Day contribution to Harrington House, DUO Marketing + Communications, a national PR and Communications consultancy has committed to donating R5500 to purchase the oven for Mrs. Barrett's House.

CEO of DUO Marketing + Communications, Judith Middleton said, “Our CSI projects often lean towards education and children in need - an area of personal passion for me and an area where I truly feel we aren’t doing enough. It’s a small donation, but I hope it will become one that inspires other businesses, big or small, to make a difference too.”

Sponsors of this project include Group 5, the Vineyard Hotel, Townhouse Hotel, Builders Warehouse, and ARG Design.

Mandela Day is a global call to action, celebrating the idea that each individual has the power to transform the world. "Nelson Mandela fought for social justice for 67 years. We're asking you to start with 67 minutes," urges the Mandela Day campaign website.

Mrs. Barrett has dedicated her life to looking after children in need, meeting their needs using government grants and charitable donations to date. Daily, she goes far beyond the 67 minutes encouraged by Mandela Day for the children in her care. “I am so blessed,” said Mrs Barrett, “So many really wonderful people have helped us. I can’t imagine what would have happened to us otherwise.”

Tony Dallas, who has managed the project, is in awe of Mrs Barrett’s dedication: “She is a remarkable woman who selflessly gives of her time and energy to the lives of others. The fact that so many people have come together to ensure that her work can continue is enormously satisfying.”

Further donations can be made by contacting Tony Dallas on 082 445 7491 or by reaching out to Mrs. Barrett directly on 021 462 3023

The official reopening of the facility takes place on Friday, 29 July 2016.