Edenvale baby saver assists mom in need
A healthy two-day-old baby was safely abandoned at Tree of Hope's baby saver, highlighting the importance of safe surrender facilities for mothers facing difficult circumstances.
A two-day-old baby was recently safely abandoned in NPO Tree of Hope’s baby saver.
The July 9 incident showcased the need for places of safe abandonment for mothers who are facing challenges.
According to the founder of Tree of Hope, Lelanie le Roux, the NPO and its stakeholders were alerted to the baby hatch opening.
Mamba Strike Force, who also receive alerts, dispatched Emer-G-Med to assess the child’s medical condition.
Le Roux said that as members of Baby Savers South Africa, there is a specific procedure the NPO must follow.
“You need to fill out a form and state which security company and paramedics you are working with and that you understand the role and duty of the SAPS members.”
ALSO READ: Four baby rabbits bring joy to Elphin Lodge residents
She said that when a baby is placed in the baby saver, an alert is sent to members of the NPO via their cellphones.
Additionally, the Mamba Strike Force is also alerted.
“No matter the condition of the baby, Mamba will dispatch emergency services and SAPS to the scene.
She said that once the SAPS arrives, an incident report is opened, and the NPO then informs Child Welfare South Africa – Edenvale and Bedfordview.
Le Roux said it is never certain why the moms, who safely abandon their children, go through with it. She said there could be socio-economic problems.
“Rather a baby saver than a pit latrine, a dustbin or a landfill site.
ALSO READ: Illondale family gets R 30 000 to help save their baby
“This particular mother left a letter which was quite sad and heart-wrenching. “The letter asked the little girl for forgiveness and told her that her mother loved her.”
Once assessed by a paramedic, the baby was handed over to Child Welfare as per protocol.
“The baby was healthy.”
Le Roux said after each child arrives, the NPO shares a social media post. She said many of the mothers are on Facebook or social media, and by creating a post, the NPO can anonymously inform the mother that their child is doing alright,
For more information, visit Tree of Hope’s Facebook Page.
