Heaven’s Gate, a safe haven for vulnerable children

Heaven’s Gate Safe Haven in Westdene is a true home away from home for many vulnerable children, specifically from Westbury.

For four children, it has even become a permanent home, and shelter. Lynn Fortuin, an early childhood development teacher and founder of the haven, which forms part of the Wykes Foundation founded in honour of her father Colin Wykes, who loved children.

Fortuin co-founded the foundation with her sister, Kim Leon.

“I realised that there was such a need. The haven is there to provide the psychological, educational and feeding support,” she said.

The haven is also there to help the children’s parents improve their parenting skills.

The haven, in 3rd Avenue, is also Fortuin’s old house.

“Many children are from parents who were, or are, involved with drugs. That is why they have the needs they have.”

Fortuin said they have taught parents basic carpentry and sold their creations. The profits went to both the parents as well as the haven.

The haven cares for anything from 15 years and older on a daily basis.

The little ones are supervised, fed and are given assistance with their homework. There is also currently a satellite centre in Westbury, which makes it easier for many children to access.

Fortuin, originally from Westbury, understands the troubles the community face.

“The children turn to drugs because there is no other outlet,” she said. “My focus is on the children, getting them safe and rehabilitating the parents. I don’t want it to be a permanent place for the kids, it must be a stepping stone for the parents to get their lives together.”

This is how Fortuin is giving back to her community.

“I believe in people development,” she said. “I’d really like to assist in transforming our communities. Government is not able to do it themselves. If individuals like us and do not do something, very little is done.”

Details: Lynn Fortuin on 071 541 3882.

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