Baby Moses sanctuary closes doors but not hearts

The Baby Moses Baby and Child Sanctuary in Merle Street is to close down due to lack of finances.

Founder of the sanctuary, Lanie de Klerk, said the decision was not taken lightly but this business decision had to be made to save the whole charity, which takes care of 97 children in the homes and those who are still with family members. Baby Moses is a sanctuary for abused and abandoned babies and children, who are relocated by court order.

The six girls who live at the home will still be cared for and still attend their current schools but will be split between the Dion Street home and the Merle Street housemother’s townhouse. The Merle Street home is currently on the market.

De Klerk explained the Merle Street house took up 20 per cent of the organisation’s annual budget and although it will impact the girls’ lives and they will have to adapt to the changes, in the new house the girls will have a pool and more space to play.

“It will be hectic having another two girls in the Dion Street house as it does have implications regarding food and transportation but we try to make a difference with what we have and the children know they will still be cared for,” said De Klerk.

Now that Christmas is around the corner, De Klerk appealed to the community for donations.

“Charities normally do have Christmas presents for their children but it is really monetary donations that are needed to buy medicine [not provided at government clinics], bread, milk and to be able to afford to travel,” De Klerk said.

Additionally, her advice was to phone a local charity and ask what to contribute to the charity’s Christmas lunch or what to buy for the staff and caregivers.

Details: Baby Moses Baby and Children Sanctuary 011 768 7600.