Seven years have passed since Pamela and her two siblings were left outside our gate … abandoned by a mother who was unable to care for them. Since then, they have never left our Centre. They’ve spent every Christmas, and every school holiday here; they have nowhere else to go.

And it hurts. Because, some of the other kids do visit their parents or extended family during the holidays, under the careful supervision of the social workers. Spending time with family is part of our Family Reunification programme aimed at getting kids back where they belong – with their own family.

But, because Pamela and her siblings were abandoned, we had very few details to work with. And although the children know they are safe and loved here, they still feel left out when the other kids’ chatter excitedly about their plans for the holidays. Plans that include treasured time with their parents, aunts, uncles, or grandparents.

It would mean so much for Pamela to also be ‘going on holiday’ this Christmas. And for a while it seemed that it might be possible.

Earlier this year, we finally managed to locate her mom in Mpumalanga. Sadly, the mother’s circumstances remain the same. But, shortly afterwards, Pamela’s paternal grandmother contacted us and we began the screening process … hoping that the children could possibly visit her this Christmas.

But every arrangement we try to make falls through. And we’re going to have three very disappointed youngsters … along with around 50 other children who aren’t able to go home for the holidays.

But with your help once again, we can make this festive season just as special for them here.