Lighthouse Baby Shelter needs help with wheels

A light shines brightly in Sundowner and comes from a sanctuary for the most vulnerable among us. The Lighthouse Baby Shelter was founded by Eleanor Duston in 2008. This non-profit organisation has been a haven for unwanted, abandoned, and abused babies, offering them love, care, and a chance at a brighter future. However, the shelter faces its own set of challenges, including the urgent need for a bus to transport the children.

Duston, the driving force behind the shelter, has dedicated her life to caring for children in need. “I had a calling. I have always been involved with children. When my two daughters were little, we used to visit orphanages and bring them to our home for Christmas and holidays. And it became apparent to me that this is what God wanted me to do.”

For the past 16 years, over 350 children have come through the shelter and Duston has tirelessly worked to provide a safe and nurturing environment for those who have nowhere else to turn.

Currently, the Lighthouse Baby Shelter is home to 14 children, the youngest being three years old and the oldest being 19. Despite the age differences, each child finds solace and support within the shelter’s walls, thanks to Duston’s unwavering commitment. According to Duston, 95% of the babies and toddlers that have come through the shelter have been adopted.

One of the most pressing challenges facing the shelter is the lack of adequate transportation. Without a dedicated bus, Duston and her team are forced to transport the children in a car, often resulting in multiple uncomfortable trips. Recognising the urgency of the situation, Duston called upon the community to assist the home in securing funds for a much-needed bus.

“We use our private cars to take the kids to school. We have six kids in high school and it is quite a squash and then we can’t take everybody out on a Sunday because we don’t have transport. So a bus is a big thing for us.”

In addition to transportation, the Lighthouse Baby Shelter struggles to stay afloat financially. With no support from the Department of Social Development, Duston relies heavily on the generosity of the public to provide for the children’s needs. From food to toiletries and funds for transport, every donation makes a difference in the lives of these vulnerable children. “The support of the community is important for us to continue offering these kids the love and care they deserve.”
Anyone interested in donating to the shelter should contact Eleanor on 072 385 1884 or info@thelighthousebabyshelter.co.za

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