Baby Box saves second baby boy in less than a month

The Baby Boxes strategically placed in eMalahleni continue to provide distressed mothers with an anonymous lifeline.

4 hours ago

Zita Goldswain 1 minute read

This newborn babyboy was left in the Baby Box in Mandela Road. Photo: Supplied/Tammy de Oliveira.

Two newborn baby boys have been given a second chance at life after being safely surrendered at the Mandela Road Baby Box.

The first baby, known as Baby L, was placed in the box on October 3, while the newest addition arrived on October 30.

In a touching message to the mothers who made these heartbreaking yet life-saving decisions, Tammy Oliveira of New Life Children’s Home said: “Thank you, mama, for making a safe choice for him. We pray for peace and blessings for you. He is safe.”

Oliveira said the home promises to look after the two baby boys and love them. Both boys are healthy and enjoying the extra care and attention.

These safe surrenders highlight the vital role baby boxes play in eMalahleni.

“Across South Africa, child abandonment remains a severe crisis,” Oliveira said.

Lifeline for mothers in distress

The local baby boxes mirror the ‘Door of Hope’ initiative and were established by ward councillor Maureen Scheepers in 2019.

They provide distressed mothers with a safe, anonymous alternative to protect their babies.

Boxes are set up in Mandela Road at New Life Church, in Hertzog Street in the CBD, and in Vulture Street near Springvalley Informal Settlement.

Six babies have been surrendered through the initiative over the past eight years.

How the drop-off system works

The system is completely secure and simple to use.

A mother opens the exterior door and places her baby onto a weighted pressure plate. Once she closes the door, a signal is sent directly to Oliveira. There is no audible alarm at the box itself, giving the mother a chance to leave discreetly.

Once the baby is safely removed from the box, the system resets.