Door of Hope, a faith-based organisation in Johannesburg, South Africa, provides a safe haven for abandoned and vulnerable babies, offering them love, care, and a second chance at life. At any given time, the organisation shelters 66 to 72 children, from birth to seven years old. Many of these little ones arrive through hospitals, police stations, or Door of Hope’s “baby box” – a place where infants can be left safely when families have no other options.
Despite their tireless work, there is an ongoing need for essential supplies such as food, nappies, formula, and baby care items. This Christmas season, as part of the Light the World campaign, the Africa South Area Office of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints organised a donation drive to help meet these needs.
On Friday, December 13, 2024, volunteers from the Area Office gathered to deliver essential supplies, bringing not just donations, but also hope and joy to these precious children. Speaking about the impact of the donations, Claude Bonikay, Door of Hope’s Resource Facility Manager since 2007, shared:
“We live by donors. Every year you come to us, and it means so much. Families are preparing gifts and meals for their children during this season, but the babies here don’t have that. When we receive these donations, it brings a smile not just to their faces but to ours as well.”
He continued, “You have given these abandoned babies a chance. The Bible teaches us that though a father and mother may forsake us, God will never abandon us. Today, I have seen that promise fulfilled.”
For Bonikay, receiving and giving go hand in hand. “When we’re able, we help Hidden Treasure, a nearby charity shop. What we cannot use, we pass on so others in our community can be blessed.”
This year’s partnership with Door of Hope exemplifies how small acts of kindness can bring hope to those in need.
The invitation remains open for everyone to Light the World with love and service this Christmas season. Just as the Saviour taught, when we serve “the least of these,” we are truly serving Him.
