The year 2020 has been one of uncertainty and fear but in our experience, a little bit of empathy can go a long way.
From 27 March 2020 to 16 April 2020, the South African government declared a State of Emergency and the country went into lockdown. Many industries deemed non-essential by the government were forced to close. While this was necessary to prevent the spread of the virus, it had a drastic impact on many people around the country. This especially impacted women, many of whom were domestic workers who lost their jobs when the country went into lockdown. The restrictions were eased after April; however, the effect of the pandemic was and still is tangible. Many businesses and non-profits have had to adjust the way they operated in order to survive. Here at the Thula Baba Project, we have had to do the same.
In previous years, our Thula Baba Buckets have been handed out at the end of a 10-week Antenatal or Moms & Babies course hosted by our partners at The Zoe Project. Unfortunately, these courses could not be held safely without risking our mothers to Covid. We, along with The Zoe Project, started an initiative during the lockdown to supply mothers at Mowbray Maternity Hospital with special packs containing baby clothes, blankets and toiletries. These packs gave dignity to the mothers arriving at the hospital to give birth with no clothes or blankets to take their babies home in. If you would like to read more about these packs and those involved, please look back at our blog post from 11 June 2020 titled Equipping babas born in Lockdown.
The past year has come with many ups and downs, but with it has come overwhelming support and empathy for those in need. We would like to thank all of our donors for your continued support in our mission to uplift new mothers in these difficult times.
Our wishlist includes baby clothing, blankets, and toiletries for mom and baby. If you would like to donate much-needed funds or items, please contact Caroline (caroline.isted@thulababaproject.co.za).