Thando House will be a beacon of hope

Update

KNYSNA NEWS - In a heart-warming effort from the community, a momentous occasion unfolded on Sunday 29 October as Thando House, a haven for rescued babies, opened its doors in Knysna.

The culmination of a vision to provide a safe and nurturing environment for abandoned and vulnerable babies, Thando House is a beacon of hope.

The vision for Thando House was born when the Knysna Vineyard Church's senior pastors' best friends, Richard and Michelle Franzen, adopted a very special girl named Thando. Inspired by their experience with Impact Africa, an organisation dedicated to transforming lives, they realised the need for a similar home in the Garden Route.

Pastor Steve Olivier and his wife Dee, along with the support of Knysna Vineyard Church and the wider community, embarked on establishing a sanctuary for babies aged 0-2 years.

The aim is that Thando House will instil a sense of security, trust and confidence in the babies, helping them heal and prepare for their future adoption into "forever" families.

The opening of Thando House would not have been possible without the generosity and support from Knysna Vineyard Church, the local community and various stakeholders. The baby safe haven has set its objectives to ensure the best possible care for the babies in its charge.

The home also plans to collaborate with other baby homes in the future to implement best practices for childcare and continuously monitor and evaluate its activities to stay true to its purpose.

Pastor Steve Olivier, Dee Olivier, Thando Franzen, Irene de Klerk, Michelle Franzen and Richard Franzen.