Two years ago, Michelle’s story broke our hearts – a mother and her teens, homeless but unbroken. Today, it mends them. With courage, community, and your kindness, they’ve found not just a roof but a future filled with promise. Here’s how hope turned their heartbreak into triumph.
Johannesburg, South Africa (18 February 2025) – Two years ago, we introduced you to Michelle, a mom whose story gripped the hearts of South Africans.
It was March 2023, and Michelle was living in a car with her teens. Her courage, resilience and a community that rallied behind her sparked something beautiful. Today, we have an incredible update to share!
Back in March 2023, Michelle’s story was featured in the impactful photo series “I Have a Name“. She was a woman who once had it all – a home, a family, and a career. But life took a cruel turn. After battling severe health issues and enduring betrayal from her husband, Michelle found herself and her sons homeless.
“The three of us have been sleeping in a friend’s car in Yeoville since the beginning of January. He parks it in a parking garage at night and gives us the key so that we can charge our phone with the ignition on and then we sleep there,” Michelle shared.
Despite her hardships, she held on to hope. With support from Project Purpose and generous donors, Michelle and her family moved into stable housing for six months. Tshepang, her late sister’s son, was enrolled at Afrika House College. For the first time in years, life started to look up.
Now, let’s fast-forward to 2025. We have more good news!
Tshepang’s journey has been one of determination. He struggled academically at first but with the help of group study sessions and relentless hard work, he lifted his grades. Now, he stands a real chance at earning his matric at the end of this year. Michelle has secured him a place at a government school for 2025 but needed support for his uniform, stationery, and transport.
“From living in a car to passing Grade 11 and enrolled in matric… that’s what community can do! Thank you for your investment in this young man’s future.”
Isaiah, her eldest son with the brightest smile, has also had a breakthrough. An educational psychologist diagnosed him with severe learning disabilities and Sparrow School – a place designed for children like him – has offered him a spot. However, the fees and transport costs were beyond Michelle’s reach.
Michelle, too, has experienced a transformation. Her health, once crippled by uterine fibroids, has improved. She has found work running events and is launching her own line of skincare and beauty products. While finances remain tight, she has a roof over her family’s head.
But here is the most heartwarming update: a sponsor has stepped forward to cover all school fees for 2025!
“We cannot be more grateful for all you beautiful people who partner with us to make a difference.”
From heartbreak to hope, Michelle and her teens’ story have shown what resilience, kindness and community can achieve. South Africa, this is YOUR impact. Thank you for believing, supporting, and changing lives.
There truly is good in this world. And it’s you.
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