Overwhelming community support has enabled Heartlands Baby Sanctuary to proudly unveil its new play area – a testament to what’s possible when people unite for vulnerable children.
“This project represents the heart of our community. Every donation, every helping hand, every person who believed in these children has made this dream a reality,” said Samantha Topley, fundraising, marketing and events coordinator.
The Somerset West facility, which provides temporary residential care for up to 25 children, officially launched the new addition to its Old Paardevlei Road premises on Friday 13 February.
“We witness miracles here daily: shy children conquering climbing frames, babies experiencing grass beneath their feet for the first time, and little ones discovering the simple joy of movement. A recent visitor from Germany declared our facility ‘world-class’ – and this playground represents the pinnacle of that standard,” said Monica Buitendag, Heartlands Baby Sanctuary CEO at the event.
“On behalf of our staff, board members, and most importantly, all the precious children who will create countless memories here, I now have the absolute honour of officially declaring this play area open!”
The play area represents the culmination of a two-year journey that began with a sod-turning ceremony two years ago (“Sod turned at Heartlands,” DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette, 31 January 2024).
The completed development generously supported by the Olivia Sieff Foundation among others includes a new activity centre housing occupational, play, and physiotherapists, alongside the upgraded playground facilities.
A crucial component addressed the playground’s long-overdue renovation. The original space had never been upgraded and lacked basic facilities like sandpits, with insufficient room for safe play. The expanded area now features jungle gyms, swings, sandpits, tunnels, mini roadways, shaded spots and sporting spaces.
safe, stimulating and fun
“We really just wanted a space where our children can be children. A place that is safe, stimulating and above all fun,” the team explained. “So many children come to us from difficult situations, and we felt they deserved a safe, happy place to play, explore and just enjoy being little.”
Designed primarily for toddlers and preschoolers up to six years old, with dedicated areas for babies, the facility recognises play as fundamental to healing and development.
“For us, play is such an important part of early childhood. It helps with physical development, social skills and emotional healing,” they emphasised. “For our children especially, it gives them a safe outlet for energy and a space where they can build confidence and feel secure.”
Safety was paramount in the design process, with comprehensive protocols ensuring age-appropriate equipment, constant supervision, and regular maintenance. The collaborative planning involved Buitendag, the facility’s stimulation coordinator, and full-time volunteer Gert Buitendag, who served as project manager and “turned the drawings into reality”.
People really showed up
The project’s success hinged on community generosity. “As an NPO, we rely on fundraising for projects like this. Without that support, it simply wouldn’t have happened,” Topley acknowledged.
Support extended beyond monetary donations. “People really showed up. Some shared our campaign and some donated items to make the play area extra special, like road signs, bikes, and soft furnishings. It was encouraging to see how many people care about these children.”
Local businesses provided crucial support through sponsorships and discounted services, helping stretch funding further.
The space represents more than recreation – it’s a comprehensive developmental tool integrated into daily programming.
“It gives us a dedicated space to include more structured play and developmental activities in our daily routine. It also just makes playtime more meaningful, engaging and fun,” Topley shared.
Staff anticipate “improvements in coordination, balance, social interaction and emotional regulation. Having consistent access to good play equipment makes a real difference at this age”.
The facility powerfully reinforces Heartlands’ core mission that every child has a birthright to belong.
“Belonging means feeling safe and valued. Creating a beautiful play space sends a message to our children that they matter, and that people care deeply about their happiness and growth,” Topley explained.
Beyond recreation, the space will serve therapeutic and educational purposes through sensory play, early learning activities, and indoor therapy sessions. “For us, it’s more than just a play area, it is a sanctuary of laughter and a vital tool for development.”
Community members can continue supporting through volunteering with activities, maintenance assistance, or sponsoring specific needs, while future plans focus on strengthening care programmes and expanding sustainability projects.
Simply reach out to Heartlands Baby Sanctuary by calling 021 852 3527.
