The Power of Partnership: Making a Real Difference for South Africa’s Abandoned Children

A Lifeline for South Africa's Vulnerable Children: How Partnerships Drive Change

In South Africa, the crisis of child abandonment is staggering and heart-wrenching. Statistics reveal that thousands of babies are abandoned every year, often left in dangerous and desperate circumstances. Many newborns are found in dustbins, open fields, public restrooms, or even near train tracks - left without hope or safety. With an estimated 3,500 babies abandoned each year, this crisis calls for urgent, compassionate, and sustained solutions to protect the most vulnerable members of society.

At GAP Talent, we’re driven by a deep belief in the power of change. Together with our Talent Partners, we are honored to support Door of Hope Children’s Mission in Johannesburg. Through this vital partnership, we contribute to a mission that seeks to bring hope to abandoned children, offering them brighter futures.

Door of Hope: A Sanctuary for Abandoned Children

The story of Door of Hope began in 1999 when Cheryl Allen, then a pastor at the Berea Baptist Mission Church in inner-city Johannesburg, witnessed a shocking scene. She came across a newspaper article showing an infant who had been left to die in a dirt bin. Moved to action, Cheryl discovered that nearly 50 babies were abandoned monthly in Johannesburg alone. Determined to make a difference, she decided to install a “baby bin” at the church – a secure place where mothers could leave their infants anonymously, knowing they would be safe and cared for.

This ‘baby bin’, equipped with an alarm to notify the Door of Hope team of a child’s arrival, has saved countless lives. As each baby arrives, they are welcomed with love, compassion, and dedicated care. Cheryl’s initiative sparked a movement, and Door of Hope continues to grow as a sanctuary for vulnerable children today.

A Growing Network of Care

Under the leadership of Richard Allen, Door of Hope has expanded its reach, now operating three baby homes with the capacity to care for up to 80 infants at a time. Here, dedicated staff and volunteers provide a nurturing environment, offering everything from nutrition and medical care to emotional and spiritual support.

Despite these efforts, recent years have seen a significant decline in adoption rates. Recognizing the need for a longer-term solution, Door of Hope is working on developing a Children’s Village which will offer a family-like environment for children who are not adopted; providing them with a loving “forever family” and a stable foundation from which to grow.

The Power of Partnership

The work that Door of Hope accomplishes wouldn’t be possible without collective support. As Richard Allen reminds us, “We need to work together – government, churches, businesses, and individuals. Together, we can save lives and create something amazing for these children.” GAP Talent’s partnership with our Talent Partners in support of Door of Hope exemplifies this spirit of collaboration. Our Talent Partners play an essential role in changing the lives of abandoned children, offering them a safe space where they can learn, grow, and experience love.

Every Child Matters

Door of Hope operates with a foundational belief: that every child has inherent worth and deserves a chance at life. They strive to save abandoned children, nurture their development, and help them realize their full potential. The journey of each child at Door of Hope is a testament to resilience, compassion, and the transformative power of care.

A Heartfelt Thank You

To our Talent Partners, we extend a profound thank you for your unwavering support of Door of Hope Children’s Mission. Your commitment helps provide these children with a nurturing environment in which to flourish and have a second chance at life. #GAPGivesBack