Maranatha Siyakatala Child and Youth Care Centre

Maranatha Streetworkers Trust began in 1990 as a haven for destitute people from Gqeberha's inner city — founded on a conviction that no one should have to sleep on the streets without a chance at something better. Over 35 years, it has evolved into a multifaceted organisation with a registered Child and Youth Care Centre (the Siyakatala Centre), a residential adult care programme, a rural community development project in Nieu-Bethesda, and a sustainability enterprise that creates income and jobs. They are the flagship project of Maranatha Care Children — a UK-registered charity that supports their work internationally.

Their approach integrates the physical, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual needs of the people they serve — and their model is explicitly long-term. Children do not arrive at Maranatha for a temporary fix. They arrive as family, and are supported all the way through education and into adulthood.

What They Offer Children and Families

Siyakatala Child and Youth Care Centre — Residential Care The Siyakatala Centre is Maranatha's flagship project — a registered, professional Child and Youth Care Centre providing full residential care for children who have survived neglect, abuse, and traumatic experiences. All children are considered to be in need of care and protection, and the centre operates 365 days a year.

Children receive comprehensive, holistic care including: - Individual counselling - Educational support — at various schools across Gqeberha, including schools for children with specific learning disabilities - Specialised home teaching for children who cannot be accommodated in public schools - Developmental and recreational programmes — cricket, football, dancing, music, singing, swimming, and reading therapy - Encouragement to participate in community outreach initiatives, building their own generosity and sense of contribution

In December 2025, the centre received approval to expand its capacity — allowing an additional five children to be taken into care. Their 35 years of expertise mean they also offer consultative services to emerging organisations across the Eastern Cape.

Adult Care and Destitute Outreach Maranatha provides residential accommodation for destitute adults who volunteer their skills and services on-site in exchange for care and meals — a dignity-preserving model that gives adults agency and purpose while receiving the support they need.

Maranatha Nieu-Bethesda — Rural Community Project In the small Karoo town of Nieu-Bethesda (near Graaff-Reinet), Maranatha has established a community development project with programmes run by community leaders. These include feeding, reading, drama, spiritual, recreational, and sport programmes. Their long-term vision is to establish a Child and Youth Care Centre in Nieu-Bethesda so that children from surrounding towns no longer have to travel to Gqeberha for care.

Maranatha Project Developments — Social Enterprises Maranatha runs income-generating projects to support their welfare work and create employment: Maranatha Aquaponics, a Training Centre, and a Piggery — building long-term financial sustainability into their model.

Maranatha is in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape. To refer a child in need, donate, or get involved, contact Dr Trudi Basson: drtrudi@maranathayouthcentre.co.za or +27 41 451 2224.