South Africa faces a heartbreaking child abandonment crisis, with around 3,500 babies abandoned annually. Alarming statistics reveal that for every baby found alive, two are found dead, underscoring the gravity of the situation. The Department of Social Development reported over 1,000 cases of child abandonment in just two years, with many more unreported. This crisis calls for urgent action, and Daybreak House has stepped up to provide a safe haven for these vulnerable infants. As part of our corporate social responsibility (CSR), Chas Everitt is proud to support Daybreak House in their mission to save lives and create a brighter future for abandoned children.
Addressing the Crisis: Safe Havens and Community Awareness
Daybreak House plays a critical role in offering a safe and loving environment for babies who have been abandoned. By providing care and support, they give these children a second chance at life. Chas Everitt recognizes the importance of this work and has partnered with Daybreak House to help spread awareness about the dangers of unsafe child abandonment. Through our collaboration, we aim to educate communities and provide safe alternatives for mothers in crisis, ensuring that no child is left without hope.
Medical Care and Life-Saving Support
Many of the infants who arrive at Daybreak House are in poor health, often requiring urgent medical care. Chas Everitt's contributions have directly funded life-saving treatments and medical support. For example, in 2024, we donated R108,445.72 to cover the cost of an eye surgery for one of the children. Our support helps ensure that these babies receive the care they need to thrive, reinforcing our commitment to the health and well-being of the most vulnerable in our society.
Creating Employment and Empowering Communities
Daybreak House not only saves lives but also empowers local communities. They provide employment and training opportunities for unemployed women, equipping them with the skills to become caregivers. By supporting this initiative, Chas Everitt contributes to economic empowerment and skills development, helping reduce unemployment rates in the community. The training provided to these women not only benefits them personally but also enhances the quality of care that Daybreak House can provide to the children.
Corporate Social Responsibility in Action
Supporting Daybreak House aligns with Chas Everitt's values and CSR goals. We believe in being a force for good, and our involvement with this initiative reflects our commitment to making a positive impact in the world. By investing in Daybreak House, we are helping to address systemic issues that leave children vulnerable, while also boosting employee morale and loyalty. Our team is deeply connected to this cause, often spending time with the children, giving them the love and care they need.
Financial Support and Ongoing Commitment
Chas Everitt's financial support has been instrumental in keeping Daybreak House running. In 2023, we donated R250,000, plus R38,000 raised through auction items, to cover the home's operating costs. In 2024, we increased our support, donating R250,000, plus an additional R68,000 from auction items and R250,000 in funds raised. These contributions help ensure that Daybreak House can continue its vital work, providing a safe space and essential care for abandoned babies.
A Passionate Commitment to Justice and Hope
Daybreak House holds a special place in our hearts at Chas Everitt. As a company, we are driven by our love for South Africa and our passion for justice. Nelson Mandela's words resonate deeply with us: "Overcoming poverty is not a task of charity; it is an act of justice." Daybreak House embodies this belief by addressing the systemic challenges that contribute to child abandonment, offering more than just temporary relief.
In Mandela's spirit, we are reminded that it is in our hands to make the world a better place. Daybreak House is more than just a project; it is a beacon of hope for the children it serves. Through our partnership, we aim to light a path forward for these young lives, showing them that love, justice, and compassion can lead to a brighter future.
Conclusion
Chas Everitt's support of Daybreak House is a testament to our belief in the power of community and social responsibility. By addressing the child abandonment crisis, providing medical care, creating job opportunities, and promoting community awareness, we are making a tangible difference in the lives of South Africa's most vulnerable children. Our partnership with Daybreak House is not just about fulfilling our CSR goals-it's about making a lasting impact on the lives of these children and their communities. Together, we are building a better, more compassionate South Africa, one child at a time.
Through Chas Cares, we will continue to stand by Daybreak House, ensuring that the light of hope never dims for these precious young lives.
