Marion and David Miedema founded the Sunshine Haven in 1970’s. Both Marion and David grew up in Northbridge and graduated from the Northbridge High School s and raised a family in Northbridge.
Both dedicated their lives to children, including, their own biological children, foster children, special needs children and adopted children. Their love for children is as evident today as it was in the beginning.
Marion had a difficult childhood and she determined at a very early age that all children deserved better David had a brother who had Down’s syndrome (trisomy 18) and together they decided that all children should be “spared a tear” whenever possible.
Throughout her life Marion believed that her God given purpose in life was to make sure that all children were given all the best that they could give. She believed that all children could reach their potential with support, caring and commitment. Marion believed in the purposes of God and part of the philosophy of Sunshine Haven are found in Mathew 18:10 “See that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, that in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father who is in heaven.”
Sunshine Haven began in a 4 bedroom ranch home and moved to 49 Linwood Avenue in 1976. After 10 years of working with special needs children, the Meidema’s built a large facility with all of the improvements needed to support and care for children.
They never gave up their dreams of caring for children. Even into their 80’s they continued to care for their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Marion and David are a testimony to how to be the best you can be by caring for all children regardless of special issues, race, color, or creed.
On August 26, 2011 Marion went home to be with the Lord. She undoubtedly was greeted with "... Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful...." Matthew 25:21
We miss her gentle spirit but we are encouraged by her testimony which will live on through her children especially her daughter Trudy Barnatt our Director.
