New year, new hope: Abandoned babies deserve a second chance

As we enter 2026, Buli Vitshima knows what the future holds: bringing love, safety, and dignity to every child who arrive at House of Hope in Welkom.  During the festive season, when other families celebrate, House of Hope often receives more babies in need.

Once aspiring to be an engineer, Buli – who studied chemical engineering – found her true calling in uplifting and protecting vulnerable children. As Manager and House Mother of the baby house, she ensures the staff are well-trained and supported to meet their needs. Team-building sessions foster growth and help the staff serve the children more effectively.

“Seeing the abandoned and neglected infants broke my heart. At first, I avoided the house, but soon I realized my place was within those walls.” She dedicates her strength, discipline, and compassion to caring for abandoned and neglected babies.

“Running the baby house is more than just babysitting – it is a 24/7 commitment from ensuring safe processes and high standards to managing emergencies, illness, and special needs. Every baby arrives with a different story – abandonment, neglect, abuse, or crisis. Sometimes desperate parents place them into the baby box.”

“It is not always easy,” Buli admits. “But passion makes the dream team work.” The staff deeply love the babies they care for. The babies become their babies. They celebrate their milestones. And yet, they know letting them go when a child is placed in a permanent home, is an act of love.”

“The baby house exists thanks to the generosity of donors who provide food, clothes, money, and time. Without community support, this vital work would not be possible,” Buli says. “When you support the baby house, you become part of every rescue, recovery, and child’s journey toward a loving home.”

(By Maureen Nel. Image Supplied)