Angels at work on Madiba Day

ROSETTENVILLE – Resthaven Baby Sanctuary was showered with various gifts and donations as different groups of people, ‘angels at work’, gathered on Madiba Day in aid of making a difference for their 67 minutes.

Environmental Health of Jhb (COJ) and the Early Childhood Development Forum (Southern District) joined forces in working together to assist the home for abandoned babies with special items such as milk, blankets, cereal, disposable nappies and even pampering sets for the caretakers and various other items.

ECD Chairperson Samantha Retief encouraged everyone to find small ways every day in being a blessing. “It is these small acts exercised daily and executed with diligence that really makes the difference and helps to shape our communities and the environment our kids grow up in,” she said.

Sharlin Bidassey (COJ), Environmental Health Practitioner, explained that they chose Resthaven Baby Sanctuary as they deal with the NPO organisation often. She thanked Spar Kenilworth for donating items such as household detergents, toys and other things. The ANC Youth Members assisted on the day with revamping and cleaning of the facility. Rosettenville Clinic came out to make sure that the babies’ clinic cards were up to date. Students from the University of Johannesburg also joined in to spend their 67 minutes with the babies and brought gifts.

Shahidea Goliath (day mother) and Steve Rudd (CEO) were both overwhelmed with joy and gratitude towards the different stakeholders. They explained how 67 minutes should not just stop there, but how people can continuously help by coming to the Sanctuary to spend time with the babies. They encouraged everyone to consider converting their 67 minutes into R67 in aid of continuous support.

The day ended on a high, with two of the orphan babies who celebrated their birthdays, and received a big cheer and a birthday party by the ANC Youth members. What a blessed day!