WHERE LOVE LIVES

A PLACE TO CALL HOME

Behind the walls of Lighthouse Children’s Home 

Rustenburg – Lighthouse Children’s Home opened its doors — and its heart — to the public in an Open Day that offered visitors a rare and moving glimpse into the everyday lives of the children, caregivers, and staff who call the centre home on Thursday 24 April 2025.

Founded in December 2019, Lighthouse has grown into a sanctuary of safety and love for vulnerable children. Currently home to 66 children — with the capacity to care for up to 75 — the facility is structured to support a wide range of ages and needs. The home is divided into three houses: one for babies, one for girls, and one for boys, each filled with warmth, structure, and care.

Guests were welcomed to tour the premises, meet the staff, and understand what it takes to keep the home running. The visit ended in tears and applause as the children performed a beautiful song, followed by two musical pieces from the caregivers themselves — reminding everyone that, at Lighthouse, family is formed by love, not just blood.

The organisation is funded primarily through donations from community members and supporting organisations. It takes a village — and then some. With 26 staff, including two social workers, two drivers, two cooks, three security guards, and many dedicated caregivers, each child receives the attention and care they deserve.

Private-practice social worker Cecile Janse van Rensburg, who attended the open day, shared her professional insight: “As a social worker, the most important principle is to consider what is in the best interest of the child. That’s what drives every decision.”

The children attend various schools in the area, and Lighthouse operates two buses to ensure safe transport daily. Beyond logistics, however, the organisation is always looking for kind hearts and helping hands.

Lighthouse isn’t just a shelter — it’s a beacon. A place where trauma is met with tenderness, and every child, no matter their background, can find safety, structure, and above all, love.

For more info, contact 083 493 5911 or admin@lighthousekids.co.za. 

Main photo: Boitumelo Ncube, caregiver at Lighthouse Children’s Home (left), and Elandrey Jacobs, director at King Copy & Signs, share a tender moment with Lighthouse’s youngest resident.