BIB Winter Warmer opens a Door of Hope

On the 3rd of June, The BIB Unite team arrived at Door Of Hope in Glenvista with a van load of food, clothing and other items collected from the Barker Insurance Brokers team. After learning of the need for donations and heartbreaking stories of the many babies that had been abandoned and thankfully taken under the Door of Hope’s wing, we were moved to donate some items as well as give some love and time to the babies.

The Door Of Hope opened its doors in 1999, after Cheryl Allen and deacons at the Berea Baptist Church, much to their sadness learned that a high number of newly born infants were being abandoned. Cheryl, founder of The Door Of Hope, realized that an alternative needed to be available for desperate women and girls and created a ‘hole in the wall’ where mothers could leave their babies for the church to take care of. Today in greater Johannesburg alone, at least three babies are abandoned every day! From humble beginnings the ministry has grown to three homes – 2 in Glenvista and one in Hillbrow.
The home was well organized, spotless and the staff friendly. The overall atmosphere admid the reality of the orphaned babies, was joyful and positive and it really seemed like one big, happy family! Framed pictures of successful adoptions, mainly from Holland and Sweden, were on display and that really was a reminder of the amazing difference the home has made thus far.

Although some babies upon arrival are sick or have weak respiratory systems due to malnourishment or unsavoury conditions, majority of them regain health due to the love and care given to them. According to Nadine, manager of the Glenvista home, it can also be an uphill battle dealing with the Johannesburg General Hospital, who are often understaffed and work long hours and there have been cases where babies could not be attended to on time. However, Nadine explains that there are more success stories and coming from a successful corporate position, this new found purpose is far more fulfilling despite the challenges. For those babies who did not make it, a special Door Of Hope Memorial Garden has been created and a wall with their names written on individual plaques has been displayed in memory of the lost babies.

 

Peering into the room for the newborn babies brought tears to our eyes as they were so small and vulnerable. They were protected from outside germs and kept in the care of the nurses. We had the privilege of holding and feeding the babies that were a few months older. Spending time with them was truly rewarding and their infectious smiles, personality and love will always touch our hearts.
The Door Of Hope work with the association called AFM Abba Adoptions which is the official adoption division of the AFM Executive Welfare Council, taking in babies up to two years of age. The program is based on a biblical foundation and includes birth parent care, national adoptions, international adoptions and statutory services to children that can benefit from permanent family placements.
With a second chance at life and a chance for a brighter future, it seemed there really was hope and the Door Of Hope makes that possible! Cheryl said it is important not to judge, to maintain faith and positivity. Cheryl and her team truly are an inspiration for all of us.

A big thank you to the BIB team, their family and friends who have made such generous donations.

For more information, as well as inspirational stories of hope, go to:  http://www.doorofhope.co.za/