Childhood matters: From abandoned to adored

As South Africa marks Child Protection Week, Hot 102.7FM is proud to spotlight the lives of children who find themselves in crisis — and the quiet heroes working tirelessly to protect and nurture them.

Through our ongoing Childhood Matters series, our news team spent time at Princess Alice Adoption Home in Johannesburg — a temporary safe haven for babies and toddlers who have been consented for adoption or tragically abandoned. Here, the smallest and most vulnerable members of society receive more than just basic care. They are seen. They are loved. They are given a chance to heal before moving on to their forever families.

The heart of Princess Alice

Our journey begins with the raw truth of how many children arrive — sometimes left behind in hospitals, sometimes found in unimaginable circumstances. But each one is treated as an individual with dignity and care.

“Not every abandonment is intentional… sometimes it’s about a mom with no support and overwhelming circumstances.”

“Each child has their own story for how they arrived — and where they’re going.”

The home becomes a place of healing, however temporary, offering babies the safety and care they deserve in their earliest moments.

A day in their care

From early morning bottle feeds to afternoon playtime, every day at Princess Alice is filled with intention. The youngest babies are cared for in their own calm space, while toddlers follow a routine supported by loving caregivers and special visitors known as “gogos.”

“Every baby needs to feel loved, seen, and safe — that’s our starting point.”

“We cope by focusing on the end goal: helping them thrive until they find a family.”

This is where resilience is quietly built — through routine, affection, and moments of joy.

It takes a village

No story of Princess Alice would be complete without its volunteers — ordinary people doing extraordinary things in their free time. Whether it’s feeding, playing, or simply sitting with a child, their presence brings joy and comfort.
“It’s not about money — it takes people with heart to see this through.”
“Babies are innocent. They teach us to be patient, accepting, and to love without conditions.”

It’s a reminder that everyone can play a part in protecting and uplifting our children.