Tshwane Haven was started in 2007 when it was noticed that TPoSA was turning away a large number of children with medical problems. These children could be helped to lead a quality of life, even if for a short amount of time. Ms Bruyere, who had been looking after babies and toddlers affected by a medical condition since 1999 volunteered her services to run Tshwane Haven. Tshwane Haven opened its doors on 30 May 2007 during the worst nursing strike in memory and has gone from strength to strength. Ms Bruyere has looked after 478 children since the year 1999. The Haven is in the process of registering as a CYCC (Child and Youth Care Centre) with the Department of Social Development.

Tshwane Haven objectives

To provide a support structure to Tshwane Place of Safety Association with regards to sick children
To provide a secure home environment for children with medical problems
To provide specialist care to babies and toddlers with medical problems
To liaise with doctors, clinics and specialists on specific problems of micro-premature babies, babies and toddlers placed in the Haven
To provide an overnight shelter facility for the SAP until these children can be placed with other Place of Safety parents

Tshwane Haven staff and management

Tshwane Haven is run on a daily basis by Ms Karen Bruyere, who lives on the property. She has a Senior caregiver who lives on the property as well and looks after the sick babies and another live out caregiver who looks after the toddlers. A live out lady cleans the house and does the washing and ironing. The assistants work 12 hour days from 7 to 7 and have every weekend off. We have two weekend caregivers who work from Friday 13:00 to Sunday 17:00. We also work with volunteers who assist over weekends and take the children on outings on an ad hoc basis.

Children in Tshwane Haven

The Haven can take in a maximum of 20 children, 5 foster children and 15 babies and toddlers. The type of children that can be accommodated are severely malnourished children, HIV+ with other problems, TB with other problems, down syndrome, abused and premature babies as well as children with heart and lung problems.

All the children admitted into the Haven are given the best medical care we can afford. We have built up numerous contacts with various specialists, clinics, hospitals, medical supply companies and GPs. Children are taken for general check-ups at Intercare Medical Centre and LCM upon admission unless discharged from a hospital. They attend clinics on a monthly basis for those on HIV and TB treatment. They attend various clinics, Occupational Therapy sessions as and when needed.