More than 117 abandoned and abused infants have found sanctuary at Mbombela’s Liznica House of Hope, but the sole baby shelter is now on the brink of closure.

The NPO provides a safe haven for abandoned or abused babies and children up to the age of six. With most of the babies being referred from Rob Ferreira Hospital, children may stay for anything from a few days to, in some cases, up to a year while a safe long-term solution is found by Child Welfare.

Founders Liza and Veronica Labuschagne have run the facility for the past seven years.

Liza’s motherly instinct kicked in at the age of 21 when she adopted her first child. An acquaintance had given up her baby and she could not bear to let her go. Two years later, she managed to adopt her, and her daughter has since turned 21.

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Little did she know that one day she would do it as a full-time job and also become the mother of two more children. She started the NPO in 2019.

Founders dedicate home to vulnerable infants

Liznica works closely with the Department of Social Development and Child Welfare. “Usually, we get a call from Child Welfare and then take in the baby or child until he or she has a permanent home,” said Liza.

At times, the organisation takes in two to eight babies at a time and makes sure they are clean, fed and loved.

“People think I am crazy, but I have a big heart for children and I don’t mind the little sleep I get,” Liza said.

She said it breaks her heart when abused children show up at her doorstep. “I once had to look after a baby who was addicted to drugs after his mother, who was a drug addict, gave the baby drugs too,” she said.

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The two founders dedicate their home and time to looking after these children so that they are safe and ready to go to a new home.

Monthly shortfall threatens daily operations

Liza explained that the NPO receives no government funding and relies entirely on donations from the public. According to her, it requires about R50 000 per month to cover running costs and is currently facing a funding shortfall of about R35 000.

“Essential expenses, including rent and other monthly costs, are becoming difficult to cover,” she said.

Child Welfare confirmed that the organisation has a long-standing relationship with them and has helped them a lot over the past years.

Community support needed to save shelter

The organisation started a BackaBuddy campaign to help cover the shortfall.

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“Our hope is to reach individuals, families and local businesses who may be able to contribute financially, provide regular donations such as nappies and food, or potentially become long-term sponsors of the house,” Liza explained.

She added that the organisation has enough baby clothes but is in need of feeding bottles.

Liznica is appealing to the public to assist with donations so the organisation can continue its work in the community. “Please help us [give] the children in Mbombela a safe place to stay,” she pleaded.

Those who wish to contribute can visit the campaign here or contact Liza on 078 967 9450.