Childcare NGO urges new moms to look for safe alternatives when relinquishing their babies

A childcare NGO based in Westridge, Mitchells Plain, is urging new mothers to seek safe alternatives when relinquishing their babies. 

The call comes amid an increase in cases of abandoned babies.

In the last two weeks, three newborn babies have been discovered deceased in public spaces. 

The latest incident was reported on Monday when police were called to a field near Parkwood along the M5. 

Hannah’s Place of Safety, a childcare NGO, believes that by creating more safe spaces for pregnant women who choose to give up their babies will result in fewer babies being abandoned. 

The NGO is one of a few on the Western Cape that cares for babies who have been abandoned and those who have been physically abused.

Founder of Hannah’s Place of Safety, Janine Fabe, said all their cases were dealt with confidentially.

"We've got babies from students that are in university, and they are too scared to tell their families that they are pregnant or that they're having a baby because if they do that, then they will literally be pulled out of university."

Fabe added that many mothers giving up their child to foster care or adoption should not be shamed or judged, as they were here for the child's well-being.