Lesotho, with a population of 2.1 million people, is very challenged as a nation.  The impact of the high rate of HIV/AIDS (24% of the population) has left many children without parents.  With over 40% unemployment, almost half the population lives beneath the poverty line.  With people struggling to provide for their families, children become expendable and are abandoned.

In 2001, Beautiful Gate Lesotho was established Ray and Sue Haakonsen in Maseru with seven abandoned babies and has since cared for over three hundred infants and young children.  These children have been given a place to grow and thrive in a nurturing and safe environment filled with the love and support of many caring staff.  It truly is an oasis for these orphaned, abandoned, HIV/AIDS affected and other vulnerable children. 

With the help of the Lesotho Ministry of Social Development, many children have been adopted internationally and locally into forever families desiring to shower them with love and acceptance.  When possible, we also seek to reunite children with extended family members.