Benoni’s war memorial cottages a salute to veterans
Donations are used to expand its humanitarian activities.
Currently in its 104th year as a heritage site, the Memorable Order of Tin Hats’ (MOTH) Benoni War Memorial Cottages, Northmead, continue to serve as a residence for former military personnel as well as a meeting place for community assistance.
Founded in 1927, the movement honours veterans of South Africa’s armed forces, creating a space where they can spend their golden years knowing that their basic needs are provided for.
On Saturdays the site becomes a hive of activity as residents, staff and volunteers prepare soup and pack care packages, and raise much-needed funds to facilitate ongoing structural improvements, while residents also enjoy a range of leisure activities.
Additional funds raised extend the organisation’s reach, assisting with district pension services contributions, mutual aid organisations as well as local children’s homes and community projects.
Created as a living monument and a war memorial, the site honours the sacrifices of the men and women who bravely served, while creating a space residents call home.
While pots filled to the brim with simmering soup rest on the stove, residents and former service men and women meet in the comfort of the morning sun, sharing memories of time spent in the line of duty, offering support and developing true comradeship.
These monthly meetings serve as a platform where ideas are shared on how to preserve the memorial while promoting the care of its residents.
Through the ongoing support of the community, the cottages have been preserved for generations and remain a celebrated and protected heritage monument.
The MOTH Motorcycle Association also attended the event to help raise funds.
According to the trustees, ongoing donations are used to expand its humanitarian activities.
Donations can be made during visiting hours or by contacting the Benoni War Memorial Cottages office.
For more information or to become involved in the preservation of the memorial, email benoniwarmemorial@gmail.com
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