Amidst the concerning statistic that over 26,000 cases of child abuse and neglect were reported in South Africa in the 2024/25 financial year, one Durban North woman, Joanne Teunissen, is making a difference. As the founder of The Baby Home-Durban North, she provides safe, temporary care for abandoned and vulnerable babies awaiting adoption.
A teacher by profession, Joanne’s eyes were opened to the need for child advocacy eleven years ago when she adopted her son. This experience made her realise how many children do not have anyone to advocate for them. Her background in teaching, despite a long absence from the classroom, has significantly shaped her approach. She said: “Growing up in that environment really shaped my heart for this work and taught me that every child deserves someone who believes in them.”
The day-to-day operations of the baby home are demanding, starting earlier than usual with tasks like clinic appointments, social worker meetings, and developmental stimulation. Joanne also handles administrative and fundraising work, all while offering plenty of cuddles to the little ones. Funding and daily costs are not her only challenges; the emotional toll of some of the babies’ cases requires immense strength.
“Honestly, some days are very tough,” she said. “What keeps me grounded is knowing that even in the hardest moments, we are still able to do small things with great love. It also helps to have a supportive team and family to lean on.” The home intentionally keeps the number of children low to ensure a family-like environment, currently caring for six children, ranging from newborns to toddlers.
Joanne hopes the children she has cared for will remember her love and care. “If they do not remember the details, I hope they carry the feeling of being seen and loved.” She added that being a woman in this leadership role is a privilege, allowing her to show that compassion and leadership can go together and that women can have an enormous impact on their community.
She advised other women to follow in her footsteps by starting where they are, as they do not need “grand resources or grand gestures to start serving their communities.” She encourages people to get involved by donating their time, providing financial support, sharing their expertise, or simply helping to spread the word. “Every bit of support makes a real difference,” she said. The home has a major fundraiser coming up in November, for which they are seeking help and support. Follow their social media to keep up to date with events and fundraisers.
