How One Woman's Love is Giving Abandoned Babies a Second Chance at Life
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18 June 2026

How One Woman's Love is Giving Abandoned Babies a Second Chance at Life

This story is about the Baby Essentials for Tiny Feet Baby Safe house campaign — they've raised R1,800 of their R15,000 goal (12%).

Support this campaign →

A Safe Haven for South Africa's Most Vulnerable

In a world that can sometimes feel overwhelming, there are quiet heroes working tirelessly behind the scenes. Hannell is one of them. At Tiny Feet Baby Safe House, she dedicates her days—and nights—to caring for babies who need love, warmth, and protection the most.

When Jannette Fenwick visited Tiny Feet a few months ago to donate some of her son's outgrown clothes and baby items, she witnessed something that moved her deeply. She saw firsthand the incredible patience, dedication, and unconditional love that Hannell pours into every tiny life in her care.

The Reality of Baby Safe Houses in South Africa

South Africa faces a heartbreaking reality. Every year, hundreds of babies are abandoned, left in unsafe places by mothers who often feel they have no other choice. Baby safe houses like Tiny Feet provide a critical lifeline—a place where these vulnerable infants receive the care and nurturing they desperately need.

But running a baby safe house is no small task. The daily essentials add up quickly:

  • Diapers—newborns can go through 10-12 nappies a day
  • Formula and feeding supplies for babies who cannot be breastfed
  • Clothing in various sizes as the little ones grow
  • Toiletries, medicines, and basic healthcare items
  • Bedding, blankets, and comfort items

These aren't luxuries. They're necessities that every baby deserves, regardless of how they entered this world.

Why This Campaign Matters

Jannette started this crowdfunding campaign because she couldn't simply walk away after meeting Hannell and the babies. She understood that while she could donate items, what Tiny Feet really needs is consistent support to keep providing care day after day.

The goal is to raise R15,000 to purchase essential supplies. So far, generous donors have contributed R1,800—proof that South Africans care deeply about their communities and the children within them. But there's still a long way to go.

Every rand donated goes directly towards the babies' needs. There are no fancy overheads here, no corporate structures—just one woman doing extraordinary work and a community rallying around her.

The Ubuntu Spirit in Action

In South Africa, we have a beautiful concept called Ubuntu—the belief that we are all connected, that my humanity is tied to yours. When we support vulnerable babies, we're not just helping individual children. We're investing in the future of our communities and our nation.

These babies didn't choose their circumstances. But with the right support, they can grow up healthy, loved, and ready to make their own mark on the world. It starts with something as simple as a clean nappy, a warm bottle, and arms that hold them close.

How You Can Make a Difference Today

You don't need to donate thousands to make an impact. That's the beautiful thing about crowdfunding—when we come together, small contributions create massive change.

Here's what your donation could provide:

  • R50 – A pack of newborn diapers
  • R150 – A tin of infant formula
  • R300 – A week's worth of essential supplies for one baby
  • R500 – Clothing and blankets for the little ones

No amount is too small. Even sharing this campaign with friends and family helps spread the word and brings more support to Tiny Feet.

Join the Movement on Milli

Milli makes it easy for South Africans to support causes that matter. With secure payments and complete transparency, you can donate with confidence knowing your contribution is going exactly where it's needed.

Jannette took the first step by starting this campaign. Hannell takes countless steps every day caring for these precious babies. Now it's your turn.

Visit the Baby Essentials for Tiny Feet Baby Safe House campaign on Milli today and be part of something beautiful.

Because every baby deserves tiny feet that are warm, dry, and loved.

Moved by this story?

Every rand counts. Show up for Baby Essentials for Tiny Feet Baby Safe house and help make it happen.

Donate to Baby Essentials for Tiny Feet Baby Safe house