Caroline Dibetsoe – A mother to countless children in 18 years at Oasis Haven
It hurts when children have to leave the home and Dibetsoe has to say goodbye, but the house mother gives her all to the new children too.
He who waters is himself watered, as the proverb goes, and Caroline Dibetsoe has been watering for others for 18 years.
The housemother at Oasis Haven in Robin Hills has been caring for babies and children who have been abandoned, neglected or taken from unsuitable households, with unfailing diligence during this time.
All because showing love to others and making a difference in the world comes naturally to her and only serves to refuel her tank so that it never runs empty.
“I still love what I do, showing love to the children and playing with them, even though it hurts my heart when they turn 18 and I have to say goodbye,” she said.
ALSO READ: Sponsor a child at Oasis Haven
“I have a son and daughter of my own, but these are also like my own children. Sometimes it can be difficult because they have been through so much, but I pray to God to give me strength.”
Oasis Haven has a home for 10 boys on Bou Avenue and a home for 10 girls on Winston Avenue.
They provide food and lodging, education, medication, therapy and emotional support.
There are also outings and experiences that restaurants, venues and groups provide to the children.
The homes even have their own extensive playgrounds, libraries and board games rooms.
There is tight security, with CCTV footage from several cameras.
Caring for each child requires between R10 000 and R15 000 a month, and the home is always grateful for donations.
When Dibetsoe was asked whether she might retire or change jobs one day, the ideas were foreign to her.
“I don’t want to retire. I want to do this forever,” she smiled.
Details: Oasis Haven info@oasishaven.org; 011 678 8057.
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