Assist - Change In Action was established on October 9, 2009, in response to distressing headlines in Pietermaritzburg about deceased infants discovered in various locations, including the city dump, fields, and rubbish bins. At the young age of 24, Rene Morcom initiated her inaugural project, PIETERMARITZBURG PREGNANCY ASSIST, aimed at providing support to women facing unplanned pregnancies. Services included counseling, childbirth education, and doula support, addressing the needs of young and frightened clients during childbirth. On average, the organization attends to around 700 women and girls annually.

In 2010, local media courageously reported on a deceased abandoned baby, accompanied by a full image of the infant's lifeless body. This prompted the organization to install KZN’s first BABY SAFE at St. Paul's Anglican Church, offering an alternative to infanticide. By December, the facility accommodated six newborn babies and a teenage mother.

Towards the end of 2010, a baby girl, discovered in a sealed black plastic bag and left to perish on the curb, was rescued by a passerby. This infant profoundly impacted the couple, altering their trajectory and inspiring their journey forward. She symbolized hope for future survivors, leading to the naming of the place of safety/foster home after her. This event spurred the couple to register an NPO to expand their impact.

In 2012, Mark Morcom left his secure full-time job to pursue their shared vision, while Rene Morcom transitioned her academic focus from a BSc in pursuit of a medical degree to a Social Work degree to better serve the organization.

Subsequently, more children and teenage mothers were cared for, leading to the establishment of Hope House in August 2012 as a one-year pilot project. Following the project's conclusion and the departure of all clients for improved circumstances, the organization relocated nearer to the baby home. Unfortunately, despite numerous lease applications, the original property earmarked for Hope House was vandalized and destroyed.

In 2014, the home underwent renovation to its present form, finding its perfect fit in the previously abandoned house.

The years brought a mix of experiences for the children, including memorable outings to Midmar for picnics and their first encounter with "snow" in the Midlands in 2016.

In 2017, a generous donation from TTP facilitated the acquisition of a new seven-seater vehicle, significantly enhancing mobility for the organization.

2018 and 2019 witnessed the nurturing of new friendships and partnerships, with the initial children now flourishing into remarkable individuals. The teen program, NEW BEGINNINGS, has seen alumni pursuing diverse career paths, including teaching, nursing, office management, and fashion design, with current teens engaged in teaching and social work roles. The home has evolved into a loving environment where children feel cherished, desired, and part of a genuine family.

However, a decade since its inception, from humble beginnings with just a borrowed cot and a few baby clothes, the home stands as a testament to the collective support and dedication of its benefactors. Today, as we mark our tenth anniversary, we express our deepest gratitude for your unwavering support.

Yet, change is on the horizon. We are expanding our service offerings to reach more individuals with broken hearts.

Our celebration of this milestone is a tribute to you - THANK YOU.