One of the most recent referrals onto Open Arms’ Community-Based Care Programme is Elizabeth, whose story is a reminder of the vital difference family-based care can make - helping the most vulnerable children grow up safe, nurtured and surrounded by those who love them.
Elizabeth was born in July 2025 into extremely challenging circumstances. Her mother, living with a mental disability, was unable to breastfeed or provide the care her new-born needed, leaving Elizabeth malnourished and at serious risk.
From the very beginning, her survival depended on urgent support.
Her 27 year old uncle and his 21 year old wife immediately assumed her responsibility, doing their best to care for their tiny niece as well as their own two sons.
But as the family live in extreme poverty, they could not possibly afford the formula milk Elizabeth desperately needed to survive and grow healthily.
Instead, they were resorting to feeding her raw, unpasteurised cow’s milk - where the potential for digestive issues and infection is incredibly high.
Thankfully, following a thorough home assessment, Open Arms stepped in to help when Elizabeth was just one month old.
As well as providing baby basics, plus access to medical services as needed, the team are committed to supplying lifesaving infant formula throughout Elizabeth’s early years. From six months of age, she will also receive nourishing likuni phala – specially fortified porridge flour.
Reintegration Officer Anthony and his team visit at least once a month to monitor her growth and wellbeing and to offer advice and guidance on everything from parenting, to good hygiene, to business skills for her guardians.
This means they are not just equipped with resources, but are empowered with the knowledge and skills they need to successfully and independently provide and care for their loved ones over the long term.
Today, 67 children like Elizabeth are being cared for safely at home through our Community-Based Care Programme. That's 67 precious lives that might otherwise have ended up in institutional care or not survived.
Each baby we support has the chance to grow up safe, healthy and loved at home. But we can only continue this vital work — and meet the growing demand for referrals — with the generosity of people like you.
Your support ensures that more vulnerable children can grow up surrounded by family.
Join us in giving these babies the start in life they deserve.
Thank you!
Your donation will help children in Malawi grow up healthy with the love of a family
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