ARCADIA
afternoon nap , to teenagers who require computer facilities for homework , all these needs are taken care of in the design of the home .
One particularly powerful example of this is how a slide was installed by the team as the way in which the kids exit from their visits with the social workers , leading directly into the play area – moving them from the challenges of their reality into a soft , fun landing .
The new Arcadia is focused on sustainability . Working today to build tomorrow . That applies directly to the children there , but also to the structure itself . The building is designed with care and focus on natural lighting and heating . There are solar panels on the roof which power the entire house , and even parts of the neighbouring building – Sandringham Gardens . There is even a walled vegetable garden , which the children assist with during the day in the hope to grow nutritious veggies for their meals .
And the growth did not stop there , because these walls , windows and roof inspired the community to do more , give more , be more . Donors were found to assist with the furnishing . Young children challenged each other to build Lego homes and get their parents involved as well . The desire to be involved and give has grown and developed beyond the small South African community .
What started with two dreamers wanting to give the Arcadia house a coat of paint has transformed the house into a home . One of the children at Arcadia quietly said , “ It makes me feel wanted .” When walking through the building , so carefully crafted with the lights radiating on their beautiful design , one can almost hear the echoes of the Tony Grant and Rob Diggy song : Let the rain wash away all the pain of yesterday … I ’ m coming home , coming home tell the world I ’ m coming . ■
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