Safe, safer, uMephi

But, uMephi’s children aren’t any children, they are between the ages of 0 to two-years, either abandoned, written off, or in need of a safe haven.

Since the house opened its doors on 1 October 2009, no less than 40 babies have been given a home.

The house, an initiative of the Apostolic Faith Mission Welfare Council, is one of 80 uMephi baby-houses countrywide, started by the non-governmental welfare organisation.

At a certain age, the babies are placed by social workers in accordance with the Children’s Act.

In most cases, the babies are put up for adoption, which is a much more lengthy process than most would expect.

South African adoption applicants, that have been screened, will be considered before international adoptions can take place, and they do.

However, thorough screening of adoptive parents are meticulously done, and it may take a number of years before this process comes full circle, coupled with the vigorous medical screenings the adoptive child undergoes before being eligible.

uMephi Middelburg is registering to house 15 infants, though presently there are only six being cared for.

The babies have all the basic needs, similar to their parented peers, like formula milk, nappies, toiletries, medicine as well as physical and emotional bondage needs, being catered at uMephi.

The building also needs to be maintained and in order to assure quality care to the babies, salaries also need to be paid to the caring employees.

uMephi sadly has to generate its own operational funds, and are dependent on the support from businesses and the community.

Those seeking to contribute towards a better life for a child, can donate to the uMephi Nedbank account, account number 1468135236, with the reference uMephi Babyhome.