Fair Havens Babies Home

Our History
The idea of an abandoned babies home began when a group of people saw the plight of abandoned children in KwaZulu Natal. With the AIDS pandemic as it is, statistics say that by 2010 there will be over 1 million orphans in KZN. The group knew they couldn't solve the whole problem, but could give life and a home to a portion of the abandoned children. After many discussions with social welfare (Durban Children's Society), Fair Havens came into existence in January 2004.

Abandonment has a significant impact on children, as can be seen with another little three year old girl whose mother left her in a Durban hotel room. When she came to Fair Havens she was severely depressed and wouldn't eat or drink for five days. With love and care she blossomed into a vibrant child who has been adopted by a wonderful couple who have two children of their own. She loves dancing lessons, playing with her brother and sister, and being part of a wholesome family life.

Another baby came to Fair Havens after being found in the Virginia Bush. Rats had bitten the bottom of his feet and he was badly malnourished. It wasn't long after regular visits to the Fair Havens paediatrician, that he started to put on weight and develop into a noisy baby.

Each of the 52 babies that have so far come through Fair HAvens doors have stories that are varied and unique, and most have very happy endings as they get fostered or adopted by loving families. Sadly three babies have dies due to AIDS related illnesses.

Adoptions have taken place as far away as the country of Denmark. Couples have come to South Africa, met their babies to be adopted, and then spent a wonderful week touring the local area to understand the background that the babies have come from, while all the paperwork took place. Reports have come back to Fair Havens on how well the babies are doing and adjusting to their new families and country.

Fair Havens is presently based at a facility specially prepared for us on the grounds of the COGS Church, which provides appropriate living and working areas for the children and their caregivers, as well as outside areas for the children to play. Fair Havens has plans to enlarge and possibly cater for a greater number of children without losing the family environment that it has. In addition, investigations are underway as to the possibility of establishing a "Foster Care Home" where children who do not get adopted can stay for as long as necessary. Fair Havens has a vision to see many other homes develop in South Africa, so that together they can help the abandoned children of this nation.

Stories of Hope
The best testimony of the year’s activities are the stories of hope and restoration for our little ones, like the story of James*

‘James was two years old when he was brought to us. He could not speak well, was not potty trained and physically very small.

This quiet little boy, who kept to himself, immediately crept into everybody’s heart. He was showered with love, patience, and perseverance soon learned how to play, laugh and have fun.
The welfare looked high and low for a family for him. But no one wanted a toddler. Eventually they asked us to pray, so we did. Within a few months, the wonderful news came that there was a family for him. When this family initially came to Fair Havens, they wanted a baby, but there were no little ones. It was meant to be James.

The adopted Mom and Dad fell in love with him very quickly. They came to visit him at every opportunity they could. If the Dad could not make it, the Mom had to video the visit so that he could see what he did during the visit. At long last they could take him out for the day and it was hard to tell if James or his new parents had the most fun! Within three or four weeks of the parents coming to visit, this little boy was very happy to go.

He is now in a happy stable home, going to school and loving every moment of being part of a family.

*Name has been changed to protect the identity of the child.

  

Fair Havens relies heavily on the generosity of people who give their time, organisations who provide funds ad provisions and medical facilities, and specialists who provide their expertise free of charge. Without this ongoing support Fair Havens would not be where it is today. We say a special Thank You to all who help us provide for these abandoned children and look forward to a growth in capacity with your support.