Hearts of Hope provides a haven for vulnerable children
For nearly three decades, Wendywood-based children’s home has provided a safe environment for children who have experienced abuse, neglect and abandonment.
What started as a small volunteer initiative in 1997 has grown into one of Wendywood’s most impactful children’s homes.
Hearts of Hope now provides a safe and nurturing environment for 52 orphaned and vulnerable children, offering more than just shelter, but providing a stable home and specialised care.
Operating from three properties in Wendywood, the non-profit organisation cares for children who have been abandoned, neglected or removed from unsafe environments by the children’s court.
Read more: Hearts of Hope partners with a local brand to support vulnerable children
While children arrive with different stories and challenges, Deborah van Dongen, chairperson and co-founder of Hearts of Hope, said they remained committed to giving each child the support they needed to heal, grow and thrive.
“One of our differentiating factors in the way in which we operate is the depth of care. Our focus is not on the volumes and numbers of children that we look after, but really the depth of care that each particular child needs,” Van Dongen said.
“Each child is supported by a dedicated care team that includes social workers, child and youth care workers and house mothers who help create a stable family-like environment.
Also read: National Centre for Child Protection visits Hearts of Hope children’s home in Wendywood
Van Dongen added that as many of the children arrived at Hearts of Hope after experiencing challenges, healthcare remained one of the organisation’s biggest expenses. “Many of our children are on chronic medication, largely for asthma and eczema.”
She added that the organisation was supported by the Department of Social Development, fundraising initiatives and the community.
“We receive 20% funding from social development, and 80% is from our fundraising initiatives, including a coffee that we are selling and community donations. We value the support of the community; we could not manage without their support.
“We are currently raising R5 000 to buy new fire extinguishers for the safety of our children. Any contribution would be hugely appreciated. We also welcome any support from the community, whether you’re able to commit to being a volunteer on a weekly or monthly basis, or adopt an expense, even if it’s for dishwashing soup.”
Professional child and youth care worker Portia Maketa said building trusting relationships was essential to helping children heal and develop.
“If you want to be a child and youth care worker, the first thing that you must have is love for children. You also need to build children through the four quandras, which are independence, socially, economically, and spiritually.”
“I love spending time with the kids, even though they can be difficult sometimes. They love me, and I enjoy every second with them.”
Details: Contact Deborah Van Dongen on 082 458 2677 or email info@heartsofhope.co.za
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