Louis and Cani Venter began their non-profit organisation, Lekwa Baby Rescue (LBR), in 2020 with one three-month-old girl who is still with them today.
Before starting their journey of rescuing children, the pair took in stray cats, however, their love for children ultimately led them to choose baby rescue full-time. According to Cani, they started with Cani teaching and Louis having a full-time job.
“God kept giving us signs and telling us that this is what we were meant to do,” said Louis.
According to the pair, they first registered LBR as an NPO in 2022. They have housed a total of 15 children since 2020 and have helped over 60 children in difficult situations in this year alone.
Currently, six children reside in the Venter household. Though this home is filled to the brim with love and care, it is not without challenges.
The six children who are currently under their care attend five different schools in the Standerton area.
“We drive about 40 km in total to take them all to school every day,” explained Cani.
This creates a problem with the diesel required to achieve this. The emotional toll this work takes does affect them from time to time, but they always bounce back and remember all of the good they have done.
Cani expressed that in one instance a child was abducted from his home, the suspect had planned to sell the child for R2000.
With the help of authorities, they were able to save the boy and bring him home to his parents. In another case, they rescued a baby that was left in a box and gave the child a safe, loving home.
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They realised that a large number of the babies they have saved have been abandoned by their parents.
“As small as they are, they know when they have been abandoned,” added Louis.
The Venters went on to explain that one of the little ones for whom they currently caring, cannot be alone at all for fear of abandonment. During the interview the couple were excited to announce their future plans for the NPO.
According to them, they have been planning to receive housing to open a centre where these children will have a haven and are very excited about this project.
“We are currently at capacity, but this monumental step will help us house up to 20 children at a time,” added Cani.
They expressed sincere gratitude for every person in the community who has donated to their cause and would like to thank everyone who has made it possible for them to continue helping children in our community.
“People who we do not even know would just show up with donations. It is truly astonishing to see how the Lord has taken care of us,” said Cani.
The pair call the community to action and would welcome anyone willing to volunteer with open arms.
“We urge businesses and individuals to get involved in any way possible,” said Cani in closing.
They are currently in dire need of Lactogen no 3 and Number 6 or 7 diapers. People wanting to make donations of any nature may contact Cani at 071 245 6420 or deliver at 37 Palm Crescent, Kosmospark.
Alternatively, monetary contributions can be made at the following bank details: FNB bank, Lekwa Baby Rescue, account no 63104500912, branch code 270443, Business Cheque account.
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