Although the Haven is an orphanage, not all of the children are true orphans. In many cases the mother has died, but the father is still living. Unfortunately, the fathers are forced to give the children up without the mother since single fatherhood does not exist in Zambia. Some of these children do have the hope of going home when they are older and can help at home, especially if they have other living relatives. In cases where there are known living relatives, they are encouraged to visit the children at least once every 3 months, preferably at least once per month, but are welcome to visit as often as they wish. Throughout our time here, we have been able to witness a few of these visits.
One woman, the 21-year-old mother of twins, took her children to the Haven, as she is unable to care for them due to an illness. She came one afternoon to visit with them, and she brought them new clothes. She also took pictures of her babies to keep with her. She clearly loved her children and wanted the best for them. She seemed hopeful that she may be able to bring them home in the future.
Another set of twins came to the Haven just over a week ago. Their mother got a headache and died (probably aneurysm) just before their first birthday. Today their father and (I think) grandmother came to visit. I had not thought until I saw them with their father how painful it must be for him, as well as other dads. He lost his wife very unexpectedly and two precious daughters all in one day, and there was nothing he could do about it. He looked absolutely heartbroken today as he held his daughters for the first time in weeks, knowing that he would very soon have to leave them again. The twins do have 4 older brothers, so perhaps they will one day be able to go home.
Other children are not as "fortunate" as these. Some do not have any living relatives to come back and claim them. Others were denied by their parents or dumped in the bushes. Many children arrive sick and malnourished. Thankfully, they have a new place to call home in the Haven, and they have their aunties (the caregivers at the Haven) and others who care for them and show them love each and every day. The children who do not have a home to return to are raised here at Namwianga, surrounded by a loving new family. Those who do eventually go home are checked on to make sure they are safe and healthy.
Ashley aka Sister Mary Maserati
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I can't imagine giving up a child. It must be such a relief to have someplace like the Haven to assist when the mother dies. The children truly have found a new home (even if for a short time) and a new family who loves them dearly!
ReplyDeleteWhat a blessing that these family members and children have such a wonderful place as the Haven. It is beyond my comprhension to have to "give up" a child,even if only temporarily. I thank God that these children can go to a place where they are loved and cared for by these selfless people!
ReplyDeleteSuch moving, heart-wrenching images! What a blessing that LOVE is a universal language and that all of you are able to share God's love with these children and their families who need tender care so desperately.
ReplyDeleteAs a mom I can not even fathom the thought of my husband & my girls doing for themselves. You know we all complain about always having to be the one to take care of the house & how it would fall apart without us but we are so very lucky & fortunante. While reading this passage I know without meeting the caregivers that these kids truely are apart of "new" family & they are blessed. Thank you for caring for them no matter what the circumstance -- there should be more sole's in the world willing to be so very generous.
ReplyDeleteReading this post just broke my heart. It makes me so sad to think about fathers having to give up their children, the mothers who give up their children because they are unable to provide for them, and the children who are orphaned or unwanted. How blessed these children are, however, that there are people willing to take them in and love them and provide for them.
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