Tucked away in the heart of Pretoria East, Tswalo House stands as a beacon of hope and compassion for South Africa’s most vulnerable citizens, abandoned, abused and neglected babies. More than just a temporary home, Tswalo House offers safety, love and stability during the most critical moments of a child’s early life. It is a place where little ones are nurtured with care and dignity while arrangements are made for permanent placement, ensuring each child has the opportunity to thrive in a secure and loving environment.

At its core, Tswalo House is more than a facility – it is a sanctuary. The name Tswalo means new beginning in Setswana, a fitting reflection of the mission that drives every effort behind its doors. Each baby welcomed into Tswalo House receives more than shelter. They are given a chance to heal, grow and begin again.

A Safe Haven with Purpose

South Africa continues to face a heart breaking crisis, with many babies abandoned or found in dire circumstances each year. Tswalo House was established in response to this urgent need, to create a warm and safe environment for these children to receive immediate care. Whether a baby has been abandoned at birth, rescued from abuse or removed from a neglectful situation, the team at Tswalo House responds with compassion and professionalism.

The house operates as a temporary place of safety, providing short term residential care until social workers and child protection services are able to arrange a permanent solution. This could include reunification with family, foster care or adoption. Every case is handled with sensitivity, in close cooperation with the Department of Social Development and other child welfare organisations.

What Makes Tswalo House Unique

Unlike larger institutions, Tswalo House offers intimate, home like care in a family style setting. It is not simply a shelter, but a home filled with warmth and attentiveness. Babies are fed, bathed, comforted and engaged in developmental play. Each child receives age-appropriate care tailored to their individual needs, including medical check-ups, emotional support and loving human interaction.

The home is staffed by a dedicated team of trained caregivers, volunteers and professionals who work in shifts to ensure 24-hour supervision and consistent, nurturing attention. The small number of children housed at any one time allows for focused, one on one care and helps each baby feel safe and valued.

What also sets Tswalo House apart is its belief in the power of early intervention. The first months of a child’s life are crucial in laying the foundation for emotional and cognitive development. By providing a stable and affectionate environment during this window of time, Tswalo House helps counteract the trauma these children have already endured and supports healthier futures.

Community Support and Involvement

Tswalo House is a project of the ENTC Foundation,  a non-profit organisation committed to changing the lives of vulnerable children and families in South Africa. As a registered organisation, Tswalo House relies heavily on the generosity of individuals, churches, schools and businesses in the Pretoria East community and beyond.

There are many ways to get involved. Supporters can contribute through financial donations, monthly sponsorships, fundraising efforts or by donating essential items such as baby formula, nappies, clothing and hygiene products. Volunteer opportunities are also available for those who want to lend their time and skills. Every donation, no matter how small, helps keep the lights on, the babies warm and the doors open.

Tswalo House also invites local businesses to partner with them through their corporate social responsibility initiatives. Not only does this benefit the babies, but it also fosters a deeper sense of community, purpose and shared impact.

Restoring Dignity One Baby at a Time

The team at Tswalo House operates with a deep understanding that each child has inherent value and deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. Their goal is not just to meet basic needs, but to restore the emotional trust and sense of security that may have been broken by early trauma. Each baby is spoken to gently, held lovingly and celebrated for who they are.

Behind every cot is a story of loss, but also one of resilience and hope. From the smallest newborn to the more active toddler, every baby at Tswalo House is on a journey of healing. And at the heart of that journey is the belief that love makes a difference.

How You Can Help

If you are looking for a meaningful way to make a difference in Pretoria East, consider supporting Tswalo House. Whether you choose to sponsor a baby, host a fundraising drive or offer hands-on help, your involvement will go directly towards changing the life of a child in need.

Visit the official ENTC Foundation website at https://entcfoundation.org/ to learn more about the mission, current needs and how to get in touch. Tswalo House also shares regular updates and stories of impact on their social media pages, allowing supporters to see the real difference their generosity makes.

A New Beginning, Every Day

Tswalo House is not a place where children remain. It is a place where they begin again. With each new arrival comes a renewed commitment to protect, nurture and prepare that child for a brighter future. In a world that can be harsh, Tswalo House is a reminder that kindness still exists, that every baby matters and that new beginnings are possible.

By opening your heart and hands to Tswalo House, you become part of a story far bigger than yourself, one of restoration, redemption and renewed hope in the lives of South Africa’s most vulnerable babies.