POLOKWANE – Ngwana Baby House, a local refuge for abandoned and vulnerable infants which recently celebrated 20 years of its existence, is nearing full capacity, with only two spaces remaining for new arrivals.

Baby home nears full capacity

The centre currently cares for 26 children, ranging from birth to two years old, out of a total capacity of 28.

Sandra Jansen van Rensburg, who has been leading the centre for more than 16 years, describes her work as a calling.

“It’s a huge concern knowing that when we’re full, other babies who desperately need our care won’t be able to get in,” she said.

The centre’s capacity is capped by the Department of Social Development, which limits its ability to expand despite rising demand.

Community support and adoption needed

She is appealing for community support and resources to continue providing a safe and nurturing environment.

“We believe every child deserves a loving home, and we’re committed to making that happen,” she added.

In response, the department emphasised that the welfare of the child is their top priority.

Adoption process explained

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Joshua Kwapa, a departmental spokesperson, explained the adoption process for prospective parents.

“Each child is assessed individually to determine if they are legally adoptable, considering the child’s specific needs and whether adoptive parents can meet them,” he said.

Prospective adoptive parents undergo a thorough evaluation at their local social development office, including assessments of motivation, parenting capacity, health, and support systems.

Pre-adoption counselling is also provided to ensure parents understand the child’s rights, including the right to trace their biological parents at age 18.

If deemed suitable, the parents are matched with an adoptable child, and reports are submitted to an adoption panel.

Following approval, a recommendation letter is issued, and a social worker facilitates the legal adoption through the courts.

The adoption is then registered with the National Adoption Register, allowing parents to update the child’s name with Home Affairs.

Kwapa also noted that other centres across the city and province are available to take in babies if Ngwana Baby House is full.

The department encourages anyone interested in adoption to contact their nearest social development office to assist in creating space for more children in need.