The Domino Foundation’s Babies Home, a sanctuary for abandoned and orphaned little ones, is facing a major structural damage challenge. Looking to do her part to help out is local swimmer Faith Whittle, who will participate in her first Midmar Mile this weekend to raise funds for the home’s extensive roof repairs.
Durban, South Africa (03 February 2025) – Domino Foundation’s Babies Home provides a place of safety, love and nurturing for abandoned and orphaned babies and toddlers.
This remarkable safe haven has seen 180 babies either reunited with their biological families or adopted into their “forever” families for the past 20 years. However, gusty winds accompanied by rainy squalls have had a rather unhappy effect on the home’s superstructure.
House mother, Precious Thabethe, described that the roof on the main building has been leaking due to the combined effects of borer, wood rot, cracked tiles and advancing age.
“It’s not immanently about to fall on our heads, but we know now is the time to give it a major overhaul which will include replacement of timbers, ceilings and the tiles,” Precious said.
With the drier, cooler months now on the horizon, Domino’s operations team have sought quotes for the extensive work, and initial plans are being laid for the roof repairs and for temporary lodgings for the six small residents and the staff who give round-the-clock attention to their charges.
Cathy Whittle, who heads Domino’s Ops Team, commented the repairs will require major funding to the estimated amount of R1.2 million – way beyond the NPO’s budget.
“With our seven programmes impacting thousands of beneficiaries each day, every rand is accounted for. So, when something like this rears its unexpected head, we need to look to the ever-generous community and business world which have seen our effectiveness and accountability over the past two decades,” explained Cathy.
She added that, with the estimated timeline of three months to complete the project, the complement of half a dozen babies and their carers will need a safe space to live.
Looking to make a difference is local Durban swimmer, surfer and sunshine seeker Faith Whittle, who will be swimming her very first aQuellé Midmar Mile (1.6km) this Sunday, 9 February, to raise funds in support of the Domino Foundation’s Babies Home Roof Renovation Project.
She is challenging all youngsters, fellow surfers and community-centric ambassadors to pledge their R160 each!
To sponsor Faith or to partner with Domino in the exercise, either financially or in providing rental accommodation, call 031 110 7030 or email ops@domino.org.za.
Banking Details
BANK: First National Bank – Durban North
BRANCH/SORT CODE: 220426
CURRENT ACCOUNT NUMBER: 62070191962
SWIFT NUMBER: FIRNZAJJ
REFERENCE: [Name/Company Name + Purpose]
Send POP to accounts@domino.org.za, if you would like an 18A Donation Receipt.
by 