Rössing donates N$350 000 to baby haven

Source: New Era Live

SWAKOPMUND - Rössing Foundation on Wednesday donated N$350 000 to the Ruach Elohim Foundation located in Swakopmund.

The Ruach Elohim Foundation is a voluntary association dedicated to preventing baby dumping, and providing a secure and nurturing environment for abandoned children from birth to two years. It also offers counselling and support to the mothers of these babies, and covers their transportation costs when they bring their babies to the foundation. Operating solely on donations, the foundation aims to offer comfort to these babies, while creating a non-judgemental space where Namibian mothers can seek assistance.

It is a registered child protection organisation, focused on raising awareness of and preventing baby dumping.

The Rossing Foundation's liaison and community development manager Maria Immanuel said the donation is aimed at assisting the foundation in its challenging yet rewarding task of saving and caring for abandoned, neglected and abused babies in Namibia. She stated that N$240 000 will be used to enhance social work expertise within the foundation, ensuring comprehensive support and assistance to individuals and families in need across Namibia.

"A further N$50 000 will be dedicated to awareness-creation and capacity-building initiatives, enabling the Ruach Elohim Foundation to expand its reach and effectiveness in addressing baby dumping. The remaining N$60 000 will be allocated towards providing essential infant formula milk, ensuring the well-being and nourishment of the children. This significant contribution underscores the Rössing Foundation's commitment to fostering sustainable development and addressing critical societal needs," Immanuel said during the handover.

Ronel Peters, one of the founders of the centre, expressed her appreciation during the handover, mentioning that the money arrived at a time when it was most needed.

"This donation enables us to have our own social worker, who will assist us with the adoption process of our babies as well as counselling. We would like to thank the Rössing Foundation for the donation. It is not easy to run this program, especially with all the associated costs. At the end of the day, our duty is to care for the children, and we are now in a better position to provide that care, thanks to the Rössing Foundation," she added.

Peters said the centre has played a crucial role in assisting over 60 children since its establishment. Some were reunited with parents or families willing to care for them, while others found foster homes.

"Our aim is to save as many babies as possible, as they also deserve a chance to live in this world," she stressed.