The spirit of Mandela Day was truly embodied by Hotel Hope as they opened their fifth house for abandoned or orphaned babies and children. This is the third that has been opened on Mandela Day.
They already have three homes in Melville and one in Westdene, with the latest opening in Newlands, which will accommodate children from birth onwards.
Oliver Quambusch, founder of Hotel Hope said, “We are not in the business of running institutions. Our houses are homes where children are cared for with love and generosity of care to give them the best start possible from difficult beginnings.”
Since its founding in 2011, 180 children have been helped by Hotel Hope with 140 being adopted, and a small number reunited with extended family.
“This is a truly joyous time for us and is the third home we have opened on Mandela Day.”
Something that makes Hotel Hope unique and the best start for those they care for is their firm belief in the Montessori education model. They have qualified teachers who help raise the little ones in an environment which guides them through early childhood education interventions to prepare them for school and life.
“Our carers love the children and look after them while our teachers prepare them for school and upskil them,” says Quambusch.
He describes the need for services like theirs as growing due to a ‘perfect storm’.
“Obviously during the Covid pandemic, adoptions dropped significantly with international adoptions stopping altogether. While borders are now open again, with uncertainty in Europe and insecurity here at home, people are being more cautious about adding another family member. Linked to that is growing financial insecurity as the cost of living rises. People are hesitant to adopt, which means homes like ours are more important than ever.”
Another recent boon was welcoming CEO Sihle Mooi a few weeks ago. He joined Hotel Hope after heading up Rays of Hope, a non-profit in Alexandra. The non-profit aims to, ‘create sustainable change through psychosocial services, learning and development programmes,’ making him a good fit for his new role.
This will include improving support for teenagers with crisis pregnancies and other essential services.
To learn more about Hotel Hope, or to make a donation, visit www.hotelhopeministries.org
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