To whom it may concern
This letter serves to confirm that I collaborated with the Orange Art Project (OAP) for 3 years
between 2020 and 2023. This was in my capacity as the Education coordinator at Home from
Home (HFH) Cluster foster care NGO, (based in Plumsted, Cape Town.) My interest in and
commitment to this project continues.
The Orange Art Project was initiated in response to the HFH foster children being at home for
extended periods during the Covid lockdown. In discussion with Jill Trappler, I expressed the
need for the children in the foster homes to receive creative support to extend their
opportunities for learning. As Jill had a network of potential art mentors this discussion planted
the seed for what has now grown into a highly effective and well received project in partnership
with Home from Home.
I can attest to the many stories of individual growth as a result of the weekly art sessions, and
regular outings that OAP has offered over the past 6 years. The children and youth have received
recognition through exhibiting and marketing their work, both locally and internationally.
Through this project they have broadened their horizons through being exposed to places,
people and ideas that they would otherwise not have encountered. They have extended their
understanding of math, language, and life skills covered in mainstream education through
creative, explorative and experiential activities with their art mentors.
Regular monthly reports shared with Home from Home by OAP testify to the personal growth
over the years for all those involved, including the foster mothers. Socially and emotionally,
these children and youth who are vulnerable due to their circumstances , are able to look
forward to, and depend on, a predictable and regular visit from their art mentor, a safe space, an
attentive and supportive adult, and an opportunity to express themselves in a variety of ways.
This project has the potential to transform many lives, as it has already done for those children,
and art mentors who have been fortunate enough to have been involved this far.
Please contact me if you require any further details.
Regards
Sue Bailie.