WARM WINTER WOOLIES KIDSCARE DONATION PAID FORWARD TO UNCLE BEN’S DEN

Unchain Our Children partners with like-minded organizations, like Uncle Ben’s Den, who has the wellbeing of the vulnerable as priority.  This partnership was highlighted during a recent donation event where UOC paid forward a donation of warm winter woollies, sponsored to them by KidsCare, to the residents in Uncle Ben’s Den.  Wayne van Onselen, Founder and Executive Director of UOC handed the essential supplies to Ronel van Dyk, manager of Uncle Ben’s Den.

The collaboration reflects shared commitment to uplifting marginalized communities, with UOC’s extending its mission to protect vulnerable populations by supporting Uncle Ben’s Den elderly and disabled residents.  This partnership also aligns with UOC’s broader initiatives such as their anti-bullying campaigns and school support programs, emphasizing community-driven care.

About Uncle Ben’s Den

Uncle Ben’s Den is a non-profit organization (NPO) in Pretoria West, dedicated to providing a safe and supportive environment for elderly and homeless individuals, particularly those aged 60 and older. The organization serves as a refuge for the disadvantaged, offering shelter, care, and dignity to those who are often abandoned or forgotten.

The organization addresses the growing needs of elderly individuals who face poverty, abuse, or abandonment due to economic challenges, mental health issues, or lack of family support. They also support homeless individuals, with a 40% increase in homelessness noted in recent years.

They cater to a diverse group with various conditions, including Alzheimer’s, Dementia, Parkinson’s, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, Diabetes (Type 1 and 2), Multiple Sclerosis, cancer, paraplegia, amputees, mental illness, HIV-positive individuals, and those who are deaf or blind.

Currently, they care for approximately 165 residents, including elderly men and women, some couples, and a few children, many of whom come from low-income or no-income backgrounds and lack family support.

Residents are provided with:

Daily Needs: Three meals per day, laundry services, and toiletries.

Healthcare: Transport to hospitals and clinics, wound care, nappies for the elderly and disabled, and palliative care.

Personal Care: Assistance with showering, dressing, and house cleaning.

Emotional and Spiritual Support: Counseling, weekly church services, Bible studies, and treating residents like family.

Additional Services: Monthly haircuts, porter services, and assistance with applications for government pensions (SASSA) for pensioners and disabled individuals.

Generous Founders & Caring Management. Uncle Ben’s Den was founded in 1990 by Ben and Sharon de Lange in Daspoort, Pretoria, after they lost their jobs and decided to use their own properties to house homeless and destitute senior citizens. It was officially registered as an NPO in 2007 under the name B and S Care Centre. Following Ben de Lange’s death in 2016, his wife Sharon retired in 2017, and their daughter, Ronel van Dyk, took over as manager.

Needs to Care for Residents:

To sustain their operations and care for 165 residents, Uncle Ben’s Den relies heavily on donations due to limited government funding. Their daily and ongoing needs include:

As Uncle Ben’s Den operates without consistent government funding, they are relying on community support, donations, and contributions from ministries and individuals.  Food supplies, toiletries and hygiene products, especially adult nappies, cleaning supplies and transport for medical visits are always welcome.  They also accept clothing, furniture, consumables, and financial contributions to cover operational costs, as many residents cannot afford to pay for their care.

Despite challenges such as municipal power cuts and financial strain, Uncle Ben’s Den continues to prioritize the dignity and well-being of its residents.

For more information or to contribute, you can visit their website at www.unclebensden.com or contact them directly for donation opportunities.

To report child and elder abuse:  Call UOC Crisis Line:  067 323 7116