Our story
Upper Highway Baby Home was born from the compassion and determination of the Stanton family, whose commitment to supporting vulnerable children began long before the Home officially opened its doors.
For approximately ten years, Gary and Kerry Stanton were involved with the 1000 Hills Community Centre, supporting vulnerable mothers and children in their local community.
During this time, the family welcomed a young girl who had been living in an unsafe environment into their home. What began as an act of compassion became a life-changing experience for the entire family, strengthening their belief that every child deserves a safe, stable and loving environment.
Although much of the family’s time and energy was dedicated to helping this little girl settle into her new home, their desire to support other vulnerable children never faded.
In early 2018, the family became actively involved in caring for abandoned babies and infants requiring temporary safe care while awaiting adoption or foster care placements.
Through this experience, they witnessed firsthand the immense challenges facing vulnerable babies in South Africa, including the limited resources and overwhelming demand placed on existing places of safety.
Over the course of a year, the family helped care for at least 14 babies, providing them with the attention, comfort and nurturing support they so desperately needed.
As their involvement grew, so did their awareness of the need for more dedicated places of safety. They recognised that many vulnerable babies were being cared for in environments that were not always equipped to meet their unique physical and emotional needs.
Determined to make a lasting difference, Gary, Kerry and their family began preparations in late 2018 to establish their own baby home.
In 2019, Upper Highway Baby Home officially opened its doors.
What began as one family’s passion for helping vulnerable children became a dedicated place of safety, built on the belief that every baby deserves love, dignity, security and the opportunity for a brighter future.
Meet Our Co-Founders
Upper Highway Baby Home was co-founded by Gary and Kerry Stanton, whose combined professional experience, commitment to community upliftment and passion for child welfare helped bring the organisation to life.
Gary Stanton
Gary is a Chartered Accountant, qualified in both South Africa and the United Kingdom. He previously worked at Deloitte for 13 years before spending 11 years leading an electronics company.
His extensive background in finance, business management and organisational leadership brings valuable knowledge and experience to the Home.
Kerry Stanton
Kerry holds a Master of Science degree specialising in Environmental Management and is the Managing Director of KSEMS Environmental Consulting, a business she has led for more than 20 years.
Her experience in business management and organisational leadership, combined with her passion for supporting vulnerable children, has been instrumental in establishing Upper Highway Baby Home.
Together, Gary and Kerry have raised three children, Sam, Becky and Sma, who have all shared in the family’s journey of caring for vulnerable babies.
Their personal involvement in providing temporary care to babies in need helped shape the values and vision upon which Upper Highway Baby Home was founded.
The family’s commitment to creating a loving and nurturing environment remains an important part of the Home’s story.
