Despite the lockdown, Tree of Hope has been doing what it can to help others in need.
Based in Edenvale, Tree of Hope gives abandoned babies a second chance and parents an alternative option if they do not wish to keep their child.
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Founded by Lelanie le Roux and her daughter, Daniela Carstens-le Roux, it allows mothers to leave their child anonymously and safely via a baby box.
Founded in February last year, the organisation has received several abandoned babies; however, during lockdown only one child was abandoned as of May 27.
The child, four hours old, was safely abandoned with his birth certificate and a note from his mother.
“The note explained that the because of the lockdown his parents had no income and two other children to care for,” said le Roux.
“The mother said she did not want her child to die.”
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Besides assisting with abandoned babies, Tree of Hope has helped parents and families in need while providing donations to Edenvale Hospital.
Le Roux explained that the donation drive was done in partnership with Springbok and Lions rugby player Marvin Orie, Mamba Security and numerous community members.
“We started helping a few families, but as word got around we started assisting more and more people.
“Each request for assistance is assessed individually to allow us to verify that those asking us for help are the ones who need it.”
Le Roux explained that because of the lockdown many places of safety are filled to capacity with children because the adoption and rehoming process has been temporarily stopped.
She said mothers who had the intention of safely abandoning their children are being provided with the necessary products to care for their children.
“Bennetts baby products recently donated various baby products which we shared with Edenvale Hospital after they asked for assistance.
“We’ve been trying to help mothers and families in need where we can.”
Le Roux said donations would not have been possible without the assistance of the community.
If community members would like to help mothers in need they can drop off donations at 24 Sixth Avenue (Monte Waldi).
Items most needed include baby toiletries, wet wipes, nappies of all sizes, bum cream and Purity.
Visit Tree of Hope’s Facebook page for more information.
