Ray of Hope Babies Home Visit by Lööf Foundation
Recently the Lööf Foundation visited Ray of Hope Babies Home in Umhlanga Durban, Kwazulu Natal. We were deeply moved by the resilience and spirit of the children under their care. The Lööf Foundation was honored to donate essential supplies to the home and discuss future ways we can help. Rachal and her team have tirelessly dedicated their time to providing a safe home for these babies.
We met Azania, the youngest at just 7 weeks old. Azania came to the home at 2 weeks old, needing HIV medication after being abandoned at a shelter in town. The caregivers’ dedication to meeting her needs was clear.
Currently, the home cares for six children, aged 7 weeks to 3.5 years. Each child has a unique story of resilience and hope. Nqobile, for example, has been there since she was 6 weeks old, dealing with separation anxiety and receiving specialised care.
Lihle, a 2-year-old, is about to rejoin his family after two years at the home. Born prematurely and abandoned, Lihle’s journey shows the dedication of the caregivers to reunite children with their families.
Bandile, almost 2 years old, was also born prematurely and has been at the home since infancy, receiving necessary medical attention.
We discussed the challenges the home faces with bureaucratic processes and funding. It operates with four permanent staff members, funded primarily by Emanuel Christian Church.
Among the older children, Donatella and Okhule, both 3 years old, have made significant progress. Donatella is moving to foster care, and Okhule, abandoned at a hospital, is now thriving at preschool.
The Lööf Foundation is committed to ongoing support for Ray of Hope Babies Home, including fencing for the play area to protect and fend of monkeys in the area, medical expenses, and food donations for staff members.
Together with Ray of Hope Babies Home, The Lööf Foundation remains dedicated to providing a safe and nurturing environment for these resilient children.
Link to website, Ray of Hope Babies Home