Lambano Sanctuary, a pioneering organisation founded in 2001 at the height of the HIV/Aids pandemic, has long been a lifeline for some of South Africa’s most medically vulnerable children.

What began as a small initiative providing foster care for children affected by HIV has grown into one of the country’s most respected paediatric medical and palliative care organisations.

In its early years, Lambano successfully fostered more than 30 children across three permanent homes, achieving an 85% rehabilitation success rate.

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As the needs of children evolved, so too did Lambano’s mission.

By 2009, the organisation expanded into children’s medical and palliative care, establishing a specialised 16-bed inpatient unit that today serves children with life-threatening and life-limiting conditions from across the country.

However, like many NGOs, Lambano Sanctuary faced severe financial strain during and after Covid-19.

Lynn Croote, executive director of Lambano, said they had to find new ways to sustain the home.

“We understand donor fatigue and the tough economic climate, so we needed to develop a sustainable plan,” said Croote.A new era: Lambano Sanctuary becomes Lambano Sub-Acute.

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Now celebrating 25 years of service, Lambano is entering a bold and transformative chapter.

With support from an Angel Donor and the Luxembourg Government, the organisation is expanding its impact through its social enterprise, Lambano Healthcare Services, which is set to open South Africa’s only private, dedicated children’s sub-acute medical facility in Kensington, Johannesburg.

“As we mark Lambano Sanctuary’s 25-year journey, we are proud to introduce our Children’s Sub-Acute Facility as a testament to our commitment to compassionate, high-quality care,” said Croote.

This new facility will not only elevate the standard of care for children requiring intermediate, specialised medical treatment but will also provide a sustainable income stream to safeguard Lambano Sanctuary’s mission of delivering free medical and palliative care to children from impoverished communities.

Urgent call for sponsors
Lambano is currently in Phase 2 of development, finalising and preparing the facility for operation. To open its doors, Lambano urgently requires:
• Medical equipment
• Ward furnishings
• Bed space sponsorships
• Support for full ward setup
The centre will begin with 15 licensed sub-acute beds, with room to expand to 30 bed spaces, significantly increasing capacity for healing while securing long-term sustainability.

Why your sponsorship matters
By sponsoring a bed space, ward, or essential equipment, businesses and donors contribute to:
• Strengthening South Africa’s paediatric healthcare system
• Ensuring medically vulnerable children receive high-quality care
• Sustaining vital free services for families who cannot afford treatment
• Supporting a compassionate, future-focused impact investment model.

“Your partnership becomes part of a legacy; one that protects children during their most fragile moments and transforms their journey toward recovery,” said Croote.

Lambano Sanctuary invites corporates, small businesses, philanthropists, and community leaders in Gauteng and across South Africa to partner with them in this historic milestone.

“Together, we can ensure the new Lambano Sub-Acute Facility opens its doors fully equipped, dignified, and ready to serve the children who need it most,” said Croote.For more information on Lambano’s Children’s Sub-Acute Facility or to support Lambano Sanctuary, visit: www.lambano.org.za/invest