Dear Friends of Village Mercy
2024 was a year of stretching, learning, and refining for Village Mercy. We worked hard to stabilize the ministry, redefine our mission, and clarify our roles. There were times of uncertainty, moments when I questioned whether we were on the right track, but every challenge pushed us to dig deeper, trust God more, and show up—even when the road ahead wasn’t clear. Growth, we’ve learned, isn’t always a straight path. It’s often messy, unpredictable, and filled with both setbacks and breakthroughs. Yet, in all of it, we have seen God’s hand at work, shaping us into something greater than we could have imagined. As we move further into 2025, my vision is for this to be a year of intentional growth—for our staff, for our residents, and for the ministry as a whole. Growth isn't just about expansion; it’s about deepening our impact, strengthening our foundation, and equipping those we serve for lasting transformation. And so, this year, we are committing to growing in new and exciting ways
Expanding Our Reach
We’re forging partnerships with programs, shelters, and businesses to extend our support beyond our walls.
A recent visit to a government-funded shelter in Johannesburg reminded us how urgent the need is. We’re praying for creative ways to bring
the hope of the Gospel into these spaces.
Strengthening Family Interventions
Addiction affects not just individuals but entire families. Limited resources have held us back in the past, but this year, we’re committed to doing more offering guidance, follow-ups for former residents, and support for loved ones walking the difficult road of recovery. Healing happens in community, and we want to foster that at every level.
Developing Our Own Curriculum & Workbooks
One of our most exciting goals is creating our own biblically rooted curriculum and workbooks to guide men through transformation, personal growth, and reintegration. We want to equip men not just for sobriety, but for a transformed life. As we reflect on February, we are reminded that growth isn’t always easy, but it’s always worth it.
“And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” – Galatians 6:9
A Story of Hope: Linda Twala
One of the most inspiring stories of growth we’ve witnessed this year is that of Linda Twala.
Linda’s journey began in 2017 when his life spiraled out of control due to addiction to Nyaope, a highly destructive drug. He lost everything his marriage, his children, and his dignity. For years, he lived on the streets of Johannesburg, caught in the endless cycle of addiction.
But in July 2024, after surviving a brutal mob justice attack, Linda was referred to Village Mercy. On his application form, he wrote: “I want to quit drugs and change my life for the better. I want to work for my kids and be a responsible father. I don’t want to continue living this way.”
Today, Linda is a testament to the transformative power of God’s grace. He has completed several months of our program, secured a job at Absolute Waters, and reunited with his two sons. Linda is breaking the cycle, ensuring his children never follow in his footsteps.
Linda’s story is a reminder that no one is beyond redemption. Through faith, community, and perseverance, change is possible.
Ways You Can Help Us Grow
One of our most exciting goals is creating our own biblically rooted curriculum and workbooks to guide men through transformation, personal growth, and reintegration. We want to equip men not just for sobriety, but for a transformed life. -- As we reflect on February, we are reminded that growth isn’t always easy, but it’s always worth it.
Connect Us to Resources: Help us secure food donations, funding, and employment opportunities for our residents.
Refer Someone in Need: If you know someone struggling with addiction, refer them to Village Mercy.
Pray for Us: We ask that you continue to pray for the men in our care, for wisdom as we grow, and for God to open doors that only He can open.
“And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” – Galatians 6:9