As part of celebrating Mandela Day this year, People Power Placements (Pty) Ltd visited the San Salvador Home in Hyde Park.
On entering the home, we were met by friendly faces, from the security guard at the gate to the general manager, Ronelle Sartor. The home is neat and clean, with a welcoming atmosphere.
In the early 1930s, the community recognised a need to assist families with intellectually challenged members. In response to this need, the Order of Dominican Sisters decided to establish a residential care facility in 1936.
The facility, situated at the St. Mary’s Convent of the Sacred Heart in Hyde Park, housed and provided residential care and development activities and programmes for children with Down Syndrome and other intellectual special needs.
For many years, the San Salvador Home was staffed by Dominican Sisters and only cared for intellectually handicapped children. However, as the children grew older and more specialised needs schools and facilities for disabled children were opened, the need for an adult residential facility became apparent. The home was then transformed into a residential care facility for adult women.
Currently, it accommodates 58 residents, and the facility also runs a protective workshop, Sally’s Workshop. The workshop allows adults to live meaningful lives and work, contributing to society and the economy despite their impairments.
Donations are welcomed.
https://www.sansalvadorhome.org/our-donation-wishlist
