Tsepo’s* story is an example of the important work social workers are doing.

Cases like this motivates social workers tremendously and make that burned out and emotional moments worth it.

Tsepo* is a 13-year old boy who lost both parents due to HIV / AIDS. After the death of his mother, he was placed in foster care with his grandmother in Centurion. The grandmother works as a housekeeper and receives a small income.

Tsepo* is also HIV-positive. He travels alone by train or taxi to the Attridgeville clinic to receive his medication. His grandmother usually gives him extra money so that he can buy lunch. Tsepo* never uses this money for himself. He uses it for another taxi ride to visit his baby half-brother to make sure he is well cared for. If the baby needs something, Tsepo* provides the remaining money to contribute. Tsepo* has also contacted the social worker when he was worried about his half-brother.

Tsepo’s* warm heart helped us to realize that caring does not require a lot of money and that even a child can reach out to people in need.

*Name changed to protect identiy