Philisiwe is given a second chance

Little Philisiwe was left in a church’s parking area.

May 16, 2021

Zita Goldswain 2 minutes read

Why would a mother leave her two-day-old baby girl in a church’s parking area? This question was asked over and over again this weekend. It made a topic of many a conversation.

The little girl, named Philisiwe, as per her mother’s request in a letter, is safe.

“Philisiwe is doing fine and a doctor found her to be in perfect health,” said Ms Tammy de Oliveira, the director of the New Life Children’s Home.

Philisiwe was found on May 5 by Ms Precious Mndebele, an employee of Hyundai when she was leaving work.

“I could not believe my eyes at first. She was left behind the wheel of one of the cars parked in the parking area,” Mndebele said.

The baby was wrapped in a thick blanket. She was left with a nappy and some surgical spirits.

Philisiwe’s mom left a letter explaining that she would like the church to care for her child as she could not do so safely now.

“My name is Lungile and I am giving my child away because it is the only way to let her survive. If I take her with me, she might die.”

This letter is written by a mom who only has her child’s best interest at heart.

In the letter, she mentioned that Philisiwe was born on May 3 at 09:22.

She wrote, “Please let my child know how much I love her …”

De Oliveira said Lungile reached out to her the next day to make sure Philisiwe was safe.

“The mother has since taken the right steps, along with the social worker allocated to her case and together they are trying to find a workable way for the mother to be involved in the child’s life. The mother was not aware that leaving her child in this manner is illegal and corrective steps are now being taken,” De Oliveira said.

This incident was also reported to the Child Protection Unit.

De Oliveira pointed out the importance of knowing that there are legal options for a pregnant woman who is unable to care for her children.

“Reach out to a social worker in the area where you live, whilst still pregnant for counselling on possible options. This is done with care and without any judgement or shame.”

She said if a social worker is not in reach, you may indicate at a clinic or hospital that you wish to give the baby up for adoption. The staff will contact a social worker who will then counsel you about your options.

“Should you not be able to do one of these, there are three baby safes in Emalahleni. Babies placed in these safes are taken, cared for, and placed for adoption. This option is not legal as it is still considered abandonment, however, it is safe. It must always be the last possible option,” De Oliveira said.

If you have any queries, you can contact De Oliveira on 062 515 5616.

Philisiwe means given life.

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