On 14 October, Casa Caritas celebrated 50 years of providing care to people with physical and mental disabilities. The facility was founded by Joan Muller in 1973 and later renamed to Casa Caritas, which means House of Compassion. Initially, the house had three bedrooms. As the facility grew, Casa Caritas was able to cater to a broader range of people, and children, with disabilities.
Today, the facility accommodated 55 people with disabilities with the majority of the residents between the age of 11 and 48 (intake age for enrolment is between four and 14 years). It boasts a recreation room, emergency room and controlled outdoor environment that allows residents to move around freely.
The team attributes the success of Casa Caritas to the resilience, commitment and an enormous amount of love and compassion shown by the staff. Current CEO, Chantell Kriel says she found her life’s purpose when she started working at the facility.
“I am not talented at sports or academics, but I believe I have a great talent to love unconditionally and freely. It is here that I get to express that love,” she says.
“Our 35 dedicated staff members provide residents with quality of life in a facility that is in tune with their daily pace and does not emulate the rushed way of existence outside the confines of our home,” Kriel adds.
Looking ahead, Kriel’s wish for Casa Caritas is longevity and prosperity. “I hope that we continue to make our founders proud and serve and uphold the dignity and respect that persons with disabilities deserve. My wish – too – is that our organisation continues to fulfil its legacy for many years to come.”
The home’s most pressing needs include financial funding to cover operating costs and groceries. Parents’ fees cover the costs of salaries and the home relies on fundraising initiatives and public donations to cover the rest of its operational costs. Non-perishable items and paint are always on its list of requirements. Contact Casa Caritas on 072 107 1989 or at ceo@casacaritas.org.za for more information or to assist.
