MOSSEL BAY NEWS - A Hartenbos resident has started a foundation to help facilitate the establishment of places of safety and the fostering of babies.

René Mouton says: "I realised many people want to help, but don't know where or how to help."

She started the foundation, Simply Sow, two months ago, and is still awaiting the NPO number.

René and her husband, Thinus, work together on this project.

The foundation has three directors: René, Berenice Kogana Paulson who founded The Myrtle Tree NPO which assists single mothers and Hermann Vivier, a co-founder of The Surfer Kids NPO.

René notes: "We use voluntary people to establish places of safety. We call them voluntary care homes. We also make up care boxes for babies in need. In the care box are necessities: nappies, creams, soaps and clothing.

"We do not supply formula, unless it is a foster care family."

She says: "We would like to start a baby house, but we need a facility."

René works in association with Child Welfare, the ACVV, the Department of Social Development, the Provincial Hospital in Mossel Bay and all the 12 or so clinics in the greater Mossel Bay area.

If there is a mother who is unable to look after her child, these organisations contact René, who organises a place of safety or foster home for the baby.

She is currently fostering a baby herself.

Call René (082 611 3453) if you would like to assist her. For more information, see Simply Sow Charitable Foundation on Facebook.

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