THE Ray of Hope Babies Home has marked a significant milestone this year.

Since opening 16 years ago, the home has placed 80 children into families, with four babies finding permanent homes this year alone. Six children are currently in their care, ranging in ages from infants to a five-and-a-half-year-old.

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Crisis mom Rachel Uys said the changing needs of the children entering the home have pushed the team to adapt in new ways.

“Our demographics have changed a lot. We now have a big age disparity, our eldest is five-and-a-half, then we have a two-and-a-half-year-old, and of course, the babies. It means different routines, meals, and sleep times. But the staff have truly risen to the challenge,” she said.

Despite facing illnesses, including two outbreaks of foot-and-mouth disease, the home has found hope in new support services.

“A positive this year is that we’ve been able to start occupational therapy and speech therapy for the children. Two paediatricians also assist us, free of charge. It’s been an incredible blessing,” she said.

Community support has been one of the year’s brightest highlights.

“We’ve been so blessed. On Mandela Day we received amazing donations, and throughout the year people have continued giving baby items. Now Christmas donations are coming in. It’s been awesome to see how the community has adopted us. Every week, someone blesses us,” he said.

The home is already decorated for the festive season, complete with a Christmas tree, gifts, and a planned Christmas lunch for the staff of three, usually donated by a community member. A Christmas party for the children is also on the calendar.

“The home operates with a rotational skeleton staff supported by volunteers over the December period. We are looking for someone to sponsor Christmas lunch for our three staff who will be on duty,” she said.
Amid the celebrations, there is one urgent hope.

Their five-year-old boy, awaiting adoption by an overseas family, is still undergoing the extensive tests required before placement.

“We’re really praying he moves to his home soon. All his friends have left, and he doesn’t have a friend his age to play with. He does socialise at school but he misses the company he had at the home too. We try to keep him busy with age-appropriate activities, but he needs a mate to play with,” said Uys.

As the year winds down, Uys expressed deep gratitude.

“Thank you to our businesses, our community, the medical professionals, volunteers, and students who pitch up to help. We couldn’t do this without you.”

To volunteer or sponsor contact Uys on 084 924 3100.

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