Mandela Day is inspired by the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela and encourages people everywhere to dedicate 67 minutes of service—one minute for each year of his life—to uplift their communities and help create a better world.
Thank you to everyone who dedicated their time to serve with us on Mandela Day 2024 at our Place of Safety! Your selfless act of giving 67 minutes has made a lasting impact on our baby haven and the lives of our little ones. Every donation, big or small, has helped us move closer to creating a safe and nurturing environment for them. We are truly overwhelmed with gratitude! 💛
“And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” — Hebrews 13:16
School Visits at Tswalo House
We’re so grateful for the love and care that surrounds our babies and toddlers, and proud to be part of a community that values nurturing and supporting the next generation. As the saying goes, “It takes a village to raise a child,” and every visit reminds us how true that is.
Tswalo House regularly welcomes visits from local schools to help children connect with the wider community. Learners who visit spend time reading stories and playing with the babies and toddlers who live at Tswalo House. Many schools regularly donate, helping to support the children and the work of Tswalo House. For the visiting learners, it’s an eye-opening experience that builds empathy and awareness of different life situations.
These encounters leave a lasting impression, encouraging kindness and community involvement long after the visit ends. By opening its doors to schools, Tswalo House helps nurture a spirit of care and belonging that benefits everyone involved—proving that together we can achieve more than any of us could alone
Marla's Adoption Journey.
Some Days, We Spend Time at Court.
At Tswalo House, our greatest joy is spending every possible moment with the children in our care. If we could, we’d fill every second of every day with play, laughter, and love. But at some days, other responsibilities call—like the long hours we spend in courthouse corridors for hearings that protect each child’s future.
Before adoption, children in a safety house like Tswalo go to court mainly for child protection hearings. These hearings legally confirm that the children cannot safely stay with their parents, decide on temporary care, and ensure their welfare is being looked after while the adoption process is prepared.
While we wait, we hold our little ones close and cherish every shared giggle and curious glance. Their smiles often catch the attention of passers-by, and friendly faces stop to wave or coax a laugh. These small connections remind us how many hearts are touched by their presence.
We salute the dedicated social workers who walk this road with us. And we offer a special thank-you to our incredible house parents and staff, who sacrifice their time and energy every day to create a warm, safe, and loving home for our children. Your commitment makes all the difference.
Baby H’s Adoption — Our First Goodbye as a House.
Baby H was the very first little soul to call Tswalo home. From the moment he arrived, he filled every room with light and laughter—tiny arms reaching for cuddles, giggles at a fluttering curtain, eyes sparkling when he heard a familiar voice. There were quiet treasures too: peaceful naps in a caregiver’s lap, the warm grip of his tiny hand, the wonder of those earliest milestones. Each moment reminded us of the sacred gift of nurturing a baby and watching life’s first discoveries unfold.
Today we rejoice that Baby H has been welcomed into his forever family. While it is never easy to say goodbye, we celebrate the love story God is writing for him. We pray the ancient blessing over his new life:
“The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you;the Lord turn His face toward you and give you peace.” — Numbers 6:24-26
Baby H leaves behind more than memories; he leaves love and laughter woven into every corner of Tswalo and a permanent place in our hearts. We thank God for the privilege of being part of the very first chapter of his adoption story—and for guiding us through our first goodbye as a house.
The Vaandragen Adoption Story!
A New Beginning at Tswalo House of Safety
"Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed." — Psalm 82:3
On 2 April 2024, Tswalo House of Safety welcomed Baby H, our very first little one—a tiny life that would mark the beginning of our journey. What a joy it was to receive Baby H into our care! From that day, Baby H held a special place in our hearts, becoming the first baby entrusted to Tswalo’s love, care, and protection.
Baby H not only was the first to arrive at Tswalo House, but also became the very first to be placed for adoption. Watching Baby H begin a new life in a loving family was a moment of indescribable joy, gratitude, and hope. It reminds us of why Tswalo exists: to offer safety, stability, and the promise of a brighter future for every baby in our care.
Every tiny gesture, every smile, and every moment with Baby H reinforced the importance of our mission. This first arrival and first adoption are a testament to the countless prayers, hands, and hearts that support Tswalo House. Together, we are creating a space where hope flourishes and every baby is treasured as a precious gift from God.
